USA. The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), concessions manager Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports and operator HMSHost have revealed sense of place concept The Dearborn at O’Hare International Airport Terminal 5.
The Dearborn is a well-known restaurant in Loop, a Chicago theatre and business district, opened in 2016 by Irish immigrant sisters Amy and Clodagh Lawless.
The new airport restaurant is owned and operated by HOST AIR ORD FB, a joint venture between Chicago native John Wober, President of Airbrands and HMSHost. Airbrands is a 100% Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) operator.
The dining venue’s all-day menu features signature dishes including Fish & Chips; Midwest Fried Chicken Wings with maple mustard glaze; Japanese Curry Poutine; The Dearborn Protein Bowl; the DB Smash Burger made with dry-aged CDK Farms beef; and the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich topped with Rainbow Slaw and a blue cheese-boursin spread.
CDA Commissioner Michael J. McMurray said: “Owned and operated by two sisters from Galway with deep roots in Chicago’s hospitality industry, The Dearborn brings more than just great food to O’Hare – it brings the warm, welcoming experience that has made it a beloved institution in the Loop for nearly a decade.”
URW Vice President ORD and Airport Operations Brian Petrow commented: “Bringing a beloved local brand like The Dearborn to Terminal 5 is a perfect example of our mission in action. Celebrated for capturing the spirit of one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighbourhoods with a diverse menu to offer something for every traveller, The Dearborn also exemplifies the kind of inclusive growth we strive for – a local female-owned business in partnership with a local, minority operator.”
Airbrands President John Wober commented: “HMSHost, URW, the City of Chicago and the Lawless sisters embody the partnerships that make this airport and city special. Opening The Dearborn at O’Hare is especially meaningful as the son of parents who first touched down here from Argentina.”
The Dearborn Co-owner Clodagh Lawless said: “Growing The Dearborn into this incredible new location is a dream come true and a defining moment for our journey as restaurateurs. Since opening our doors in the Loop, we’ve poured our hearts into creating a space that reflects the soul of Chicago – its people, its flavours and its hospitality. To now bring that same spirit to the international stage at O’Hare is deeply meaningful.” 
Note: The Moodie Davitt Report publishes the FAB Newsletter, which features highlights of openings, events and campaigns from around the world of airport and travel dining.
Please email Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com for your complimentary subscription.
