Kansas City, Missouri – The BBQ Experience won a renowned award for excellence in airport cuisine, making Kansas City International Airport (MCI) a winner on the world stage. The popular Kansas City restaurant won the title of “Airport Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year” at the 2025 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards in Barcelona, Spain. This award is for airports that serve 20 million passengers or fewer.
The award is part of a record-breaking year for the FAB Awards, which received more than 430 entries in different categories. The Moodie Davitt Report hosts the awards, which honor the best in airport hospitality and culinary innovation around the world. Judges applauded The BBQ Experience for being genuine, having a strong feeling of location, and being dedicated to quality. These were all things that stood out in a very competitive competition.
Outstanding Hospitality Management runs The BBQ Experience, which is at MCI’s new single terminal. The restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for its delicious food and friendly staff. The restaurant embodies the heart and soul of the region’s barbecue traditions with slow-smoked meats, traditional sides, and a seating area that pays respect to Kansas City’s culinary culture.
“This award is a testament to the authentic, welcoming experience we want every visitor to Kansas City International Airport to enjoy,” said Melissa Cooper, Kansas City Aviation Department Director. “Barbecue is a proud part of Kansas City’s culture, and we’re thrilled to see our hometown tradition recognized on the global stage.”
“Unsurprisingly, Kansas City smoked the competition in providing world-class barbecue and flavor for KCI travelers from around the world. We’re proud to have some of our best dining options in the city available for the world to taste at our airport,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas.
The BBQ Experience was first awarded the champion for the Americas before they won the global title. The judges praised not only the meal, but also the friendliness and care that went into making a real community experience for tourists who were passing through.
Vantage Group runs MCI’s larger, regionally themed concessions program, which includes almost 50 concepts, 80% of which are local. That program was made possible through a close collaboration with local partners, including OHM Concessions Group and WHSmith North America, along with minority-owned businesses and airport retailers.
“Kansas City International Airport’s new terminal was designed to reflect our city’s spirit and hospitality,” Cooper added. “This award underscores our goal of creating a world-class travel experience with local flavor that travelers remember long after they leave.”
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With this international honor now under its belt, The BBQ Experience stands not just as a restaurant, but as a symbol of Kansas City’s pride, flavor, and hospitality—served fresh every day at MCI.
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