USA. Foodservice management company Jackmont Hospitality has added Middle Child to the dining offer at Philadelphia International Airport.
The project is a collaboration with ACDBE partner Brenda Branch, Managing Member at High Places Concessions.
Set to open this autumn in Terminal D, the latest concept has earned a reputation as the ‘ultimate breakfast spot’ by Good Morning America.
Popular for its brunch offerings and innovative all-day sandwich menu, Middle Child describes itself as “an everyday neighbourhood joint inspired by the delis and diners of old-school Philly, good for taking out or hanging out”.
The brand introduced its revamped sandwich counter concept on South 11th Street in Center City in 2017, offering its signature well-crafted sandwiches with a fun and creative twist, which has since shaped the brand.
The green smiley logo became a symbol of customer satisfaction amid the brand’s expansion.
Four years later, the brand expanded with its 120-seat location named the Middle Child Clubhouse on Front Street, featuring an extended menu.
The space combines a “clubby and kitschy” vibe, adorned with a portrait of Princess Diana in an Eagles jacket, a giant pickle sculpture and a billiards table.
Recognising talent retention as key to operational success, Middle Child has implemented a transparent and equitable pay system for both front and back-of-house teams.
Creative sandwich offerings
Middle Child’s menu showcases a range of creative sandwiches, such as the Shopsin Club with cranberry miso mayo; the Surfer with blueberry chutney; the So Long Sal with artichoke relish; and the Badger Beet salad. These are complemented by signature cocktails and more.
Other menu highlights include the Baller Classic, made with arugula, house-made turkey and Duke’s Mayo. For vegan options, the Phoagie combines hoisin eggplant (contains gluten), avocado, frizzled onions, cilantro and pho sauce on a seeded hoagie roll.
Most of the ingredients, from meats and condiments to jams and pickles, are prepared in-house, with select items, such as baked goods, sourced from local suppliers, including Merzbacher’s Bakery.
This latest airport location will feature signature dishes from the Center City and Fishtown menus, as well as special entrees exclusive to Philadelphia Airport.
The space retains the brand’s distinctive design elements, showcasing an expanded sandwich counter, full-service bar and 50-seat dining area. Select menu items are also featured at the Chase Sapphire Lounge, opened in February.
‘Founded in Philly’
The upcoming Middle Child location reinforces MarketPlace PHL’s focus on everything ‘Philly’, including the wide variety of Philadelphia-founded shops and restaurants at the airport.
Middle Child Founder Matthew Cahn said, “This is an exciting time to be part of the growing Middle Child family. We’re very proud of our talented team members for the great work they do every day and grateful to our Philadelphia customers for their continued support. Philly has been the source of our inspiration since day one.”
Other homegrown businesses set to open at the airport include Federal Donuts & Chicken and Oyster House (both opening later in 2025); and the already open Sabrina’s Cafe, Chickie’s & Pete’s and Elixr – whose coffee Middle Child also serves.
Philadelphia Department of Aviation Chief Commercial Officer Kate Sullivan said, “Middle Child serves the distinctive tastes of one of the city’s beloved dining hot spots. We can’t wait for guests from all over the world to try Middle Child’s well-known sandwiches and are especially excited for the items that will only be available on its PHL menu.
“As we prepare to welcome more guests in 2026, one of our goals is to continue bringing the best of Philadelphia’s culinary, cultural and retail experiences to the airport and now with this addition, the airport will have more than 20 with a glimpse into Philly’s unique neighbourhood food scene.”
MarketPlace PHL Vice President and General Manager Mel Hannah added, “We are beyond excited to bring the Middle Child experience to Philadelphia International Airport. Middle Child is a true reflection of Philadelphia’s culinary spirit – honouring tradition while embracing innovation.” 
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