At Grand Junction Airport, Tailwind Concessions handles the food and drink services. I met with Michael Wells, their Senior Ops Manager, who was kind enough to escort me through security. This was my first time going behind the scenes without a ticket! I needed to show my ID, take off my shoes, and go through the standard security checks. I even learned that all food and drinks must pass through security too. It’s a different perspective I hadn’t considered before.
Michael was friendly and really knows his stuff. He travels to airports across the country, checking in on restaurants and their teams. He used to be a chef and has a great relationship with the staff at the airport. Everyone I spoke to, from the restaurant team to the gift shop manager, mentioned how much they love working there. It feels like a family environment.
The main eatery at the airport is the Grand Mesa Grill, located right after security. They make everything from scratch and cook it fresh when you order. I tried a hummus and veggie wrap along with some fantastic French fries that were extra crispy—definitely the best I’ve had! On their menu, you’ll find options like a Hatch Chile Chicken Sandwich, a Cubano, Parmesan Crusted Grilled Cheese, Breakfast Burritos, and a hearty Carnitas Bowl.
When you order, expect to wait about 5 to 15 minutes depending on the busyness of the kitchen. If you’re in a rush, there’s a “grab and go” cooler with quick bites. I spotted a tasty Southwestern Quinoa Bowl packed with quinoa, brown rice, fresh veggies, and a chipotle ranch dressing. They also offer various sandwiches and delicious cinnamon rolls made fresh each day.
The Grand Mesa Grill opens at 4:00 a.m. and stays open until the last flight of the day. The bar area starts serving at 9:30 a.m. Tailwind also operates a gift store offering local goodies like Enstrom’s toffee and various sauces from Pear Blossom Farms in Palisade.
After my meal was ready, we sat in the bar area to eat. It has amazing views of the runway, mountains, and planes taking off. I’ve never sat there before, and it was a fantastic spot. They have a nice selection of aviation-themed cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks to choose from.
Next to the bar, I noticed a guitar. To my surprise, it’s available for anyone to play! Michael explained that it’s a great way for travelers to relax and enjoy some music while waiting. Many people pick it up, and it adds a nice vibe to the area.
This wonderful experience has me thinking that arriving early for a flight is a good idea. Enjoying a meal and drinks while watching the planes is a great way to kick off a journey!
If you have any food and beverage-related events or information, feel free to reach out to me at AllThingsFoodChristine@gmail.com.
Source link
restaurant, foods, food and drink, cuisine, cooking, western cuisine, food and drink preparation, food watchlist articles, burrito, breakfast, european cuisine, cuisine of the americas
