Recently, I discovered a delightful food scene at the Grand Junction Regional Airport. You might be surprised to hear about it, but there’s more to this airport than just flights. I really like having a local airport; it saves me from the stress of driving all the way to Denver and dealing with heavy traffic.
The airport’s food and drink services are managed by Tailwind Concessions. I had the chance to meet Michael Wells, their Senior Ops Manager, who is a friendly and knowledgeable guy. He travels around the country, visiting different airports and checking in on restaurants. With his background as a chef, he has built great relationships with all the staff. Everyone I spoke to—from the restaurant workers to the gift store manager—said they love their jobs and appreciate the family-like atmosphere at the airport.
One standout spot is the Grand Mesa Grill, located just past security. They prepare everything from scratch, offering a menu that includes a Hatch Chile Chicken Sandwich, a Cubano, and even breakfast classics like eggs and bacon. I tried a hummus and vegetable wrap there, along with some of the best French fries I’ve ever had—extra crispy and perfectly battered!
In case you’re in a hurry, the airport also has a handy “grab and go” cooler filled with fresh options. Their Southwestern Quinoa Bowl is a delicious choice, featuring quinoa, romaine lettuce, black bean and corn salsa, and homemade chipotle ranch dressing. There’s also a selection of sandwiches and daily fresh-baked cinnamon rolls.
The Grand Mesa Grill is open from 4:00 a.m. until the last flight of the day. The bar opens at 9:30 a.m., offering a range of drinks, including locally inspired aviation-themed cocktails. The bar has stunning views of the runways and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect place to relax before your flight.
Interestingly, there’s a guitar near the bar for anyone to use. It’s a unique touch that lets passengers play music and enjoy the atmosphere. Michael mentioned that it’s been a hit at many airports, helping people unwind as they wait. I loved the idea of serenading fellow travelers!
After my meal, I found myself wishing I had arrived earlier to enjoy more time at the airport. Eating and watching planes take off and land was a relaxing start to my journey.
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