USA. HMSHost, part of travel experience leader Avolta, has launched three food & beverage venues in the recently opened 200,000sq ft Concourse A expansion at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
They include the new HMSHost proprietary concept The Crown Diner + Drinks, a Dunkin’ outlet and the relocated and expanded Great Wagon Road Distilling Company bar.
The Crown Diner + Drinks occupies a 158.7sq m space and provides 54 dining seats and TV screens. It offers all-day breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, snacks and salads.
Among the menu items are Classic Monte Cristo, Vanilla French Toast, Pimento Cheese Poutine, Crispy Chicken Club, Veggie Chili Cheeseburger and Cheddar Grits.
The Crown Diner drinks menu includes the Spicy Derby Mary, Passionfruit Mimosa, Sparkling Guava Margarita and the Watermelon Mai Tai, along with a wine, cider and spirits offer.
HMSHost told The Moodie Davitt Report that the design inspiration behind The Crown Diner is derived from “classic mid-century diner symbolism with applied overtones of fun, bold and vibrant colour and details”.
It added: “The concept is unique in its approach and design, and one not found in the current CLT dining experience. The bold but balanced pallet of colour and textures flows throughout the space from floor to ceiling to attract travellers passing by.
“The use of jewel tones, a retro plaid pattern, stainless steel counters, marble penny-round tile and a wood-panelled accent wall create a warm, modernised vintage atmosphere with something for everyone.”
Meanwhile, the Great Wagon Road Distilling Company bar has switched positions in Concourse A and is sporting a refreshed look. The 27.9sq m venue has ten bar seats plus additional high-top seating.
The drinks menu includes signature cocktails and flights featuring Great Wagon Road Distilling Company spirits, including Rúa, an American single-malt whiskey and the brand’s flagship product, which Esquire magazine named the best whiskey in North Carolina in 2019. The bar also serves beer and wine.
Completing the trio of HMSHost openings is a 96.8sq m Dunkin’ with 28 seats.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s Concourse A expansion, revealed on 17 September, introduces ten new gates, including seven for Delta Air Lines, two for Frontier Airlines, and one common-use gate. It bring the airport’s total gate count to 124.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport Chief Executive Officer Haley Gentry said: “The opening of Concourse A Expansion – Phase II marks a significant milestone for CLT and the Destination CLT programme. This addition not only represents growth, but a dedication to enhancing the overall travel experience.
“The ten new gates, unique dining options, artistic touches and cutting-edge innovation reflect a significant investment in our infrastructure and serve as a testament to our vision for building an airport for the future.” 
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.
