Airport News

New Restaurant Headlines Enhanced Guest Experience at CAK 

GREEN, OH: Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) travelers will soon have a new dining option beyond the security checkpoint as Chick-fil-A prepares to open at CAK in early November 2026.

Construction is underway on the new post-security restaurant, which will replace CAK Café and provide passengers with a familiar and favorite dining option while traveling through the airport.

“Our two brands have a shared commitment to delivering a delightful experience for our guests, and we’re proud to bring such a well-loved dining option to CAK,” said Lisa Dalpiaz, VP of Air Service & Business Development.

Additional Dining Enhancements Throughout the Terminal

Chick-fil-A is part of a broader effort by CAK and its concessions partner, United Concessions Group (UCG), to expand dining options throughout the terminal.

An upcoming renovation is also planned for the neighboring Great Lakes Brewery location. CAK and UCG are currently developing a new concept for the space and will share more details following completion of the Chick-fil-A project.

Just outside the security checkpoint, Café Express has expanded its menu and service capabilities to better accommodate growing passenger demand.

The Observation Deck and Akron Coffee Roasters are also undergoing menu refreshes based on passenger feedback and preferences.

To provide more convenient options throughout the terminal, additional grab-and-go offerings are being added airport-wide. A new illy coffee machine in the pre-security area now provides 24/7 coffee service for travelers, visitors and airport employees. Farmer's Fridge vending machines, featuring chef-crafted meals made with fresh ingredients, will soon be available in both pre- and post-security locations.

Expanded Retail Featuring Local Favorites 

Shops on Deck, the airport's post-security retail store, has more than doubled its product selection over the past year. New offerings include locally grown and made products through Purplebrown Farm Store, custom apparel and expanded grab-and-go options. 

New ShopAll Fans and ShopAll Sound vending machines have also been added post-security, offering popular trading cards and electronics around the clock.

“Akron-Canton Airport is experiencing tremendous momentum, and that's a testament to the vision and hard work of the entire CAK team,” said Spencer Shaw, Executive VP of United Concessions Group. “As passenger traffic continues to grow, we're excited to invest alongside the airport to deliver an exceptional guest experience. Chick-fil-A is an important milestone, but it's only a piece of our long-term commitment to bringing new dining, retail, and convenience options that will continue to elevate the airport experience for travelers and the community alike."

Investing in the Passenger Experience as CAK Grows 

The concessions enhancements come at a time of significant growth for CAK. Passenger traffic is up approximately 35% year over year, and CAK is on track to welcome one million passengers in 2026. 

In addition to serving ticketed passengers, many of CAK’s concessions can also be enjoyed by community members through the airport’s CAK Guest Pass program. The program allows approved, non-ticketed visitors to access the post-security area and take advantage of dining, shopping and airport amenities before seeing family and friends off or simply enjoying the airport experience. 

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About Akron-Canton Airport (CAK)

Akron-Canton Airport is committed to providing a welcoming, convenient, and stress-free travel experience for Northeast Ohio. With nonstop service to 24 destinations and hundreds of one-stops, CAK connects travelers to what matters most while supporting economic growth throughout Northeast Ohio.

Media Contact

Lisa Dalpiaz

Akron-Canton Airport

Vice President of Air Service and Business Development

ldalpiaz@akroncantonairport.com

Phone: 330.499.4059