Best Restaurants at Northwest Arkansas (XNA)
XNA has dining options throughout its terminal — from local institutions to reliable chains. Below is a terminal-by-terminal guide to the highlights, plus the best quick bites, sit-down spots, and what to expect on pricing before your flight.
Airport Dining · XNA
What restaurants are at Northwest Arkansas (XNA)?
XNA operates a single terminal, so all dining is accessible once you clear security. Here are the standout options:
| Restaurant | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Smokewood American Grill | Southern/BBQ-style grill | $$ |
| Core Brewing Company | Craft beer taproom | $$ |
| Auntie Anne's | Pretzels & snacks | $ |
| Einstein Bros. Bagels | Coffee & bagels | $ |
| Bionics by Onyx Coffee | Local specialty coffee | $ |
| Slim Chickens | Fast-casual chicken | $ |
| Escape Lounges | Pay-access lounge dining & bar | $$$ |
What's the best quick bite at Northwest Arkansas?
Auntie Anne's or Einstein Bros. Bagels (both Concourse A, near Gates A1–A2) — the fastest grab-and-go options closest to the front of the concourse.
Quick-service counters at XNA typically get you through the line in 5–10 minutes at off-peak times, and up to 20 minutes during the morning rush. Budget an extra 15 minutes at minimum if you plan to eat before your flight — and check your Leave-By Time before you sit down so you know exactly how much runway you have.
Where can I get a sit-down meal at Northwest Arkansas?
Smokewood American Grill (Concourse A, near Gate A3) — XNA's only true full-service option, with Southern/BBQ-style plates and a bar.
Full-service restaurants at XNA typically require 45–75 minutes from being seated to paying the check. If you want a relaxed dining experience, plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before boarding — factor in security wait, the walk to your gate, and a buffer for the unexpected. The Leave-By calculator can fold your meal time into your total airport plan.
How much does food cost at Northwest Arkansas?
XNA runs on the inexpensive end for airport dining — it's a small regional airport with a handful of local and regional operators rather than upscale destination restaurants; expect roughly $6–10 for coffee/pretzels and $12–20 for a Smokewood plate or brewery meal.
Airport restaurants across the US typically charge 20–40% above street prices due to higher operating costs, rent, and logistics. At XNA, use this rough guide:
| Price Symbol | Per Person | Typical Options |
|---|---|---|
| $ | Under $12 | Fast food, coffee, grab-and-go snacks |
| $$ | $12–25 | Fast-casual, sandwiches, pub fare |
| $$$ | Over $25 | Full-service restaurants, steakhouses, seafood |
Prices as of 2026. Tip (18–20%) is additional at full-service restaurants.
Can I bring outside food into Northwest Arkansas?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at XNA. You can pack a sandwich, snacks, fruit, homemade food, or even a full restaurant meal in your carry-on bag and bring it through the checkpoint without any issue.
The restriction applies to liquids and gels over 3.4 oz (100 mL): soups, dips, nut butters in large containers, juice boxes, and similar items must follow the 3-1-1 rule or be placed in checked baggage. Solid food — including wrapped sandwiches, chips, candy, produce, and baked goods — passes through freely.
This means you can save significantly on airport food prices by packing your own meal or picking something up before you enter the terminal. See the full TSA food policy and tips in our guide: Can you bring food through airport security?
Arrive early enough for a relaxed meal
The Leave-By calculator folds your real-time XNA security wait, drive time with traffic, and gate walk into one exact time to leave home — so you arrive with time to eat, not just sprint.
Calculate your Leave-By Time →See also: XNA TSA wait times · XNA security tips · Bringing food through security
Common questions about dining at XNA
What are the best restaurants at XNA?
XNA has one terminal with several dining options airside. Highlights include Smokewood American Grill, Core Brewing Company, Auntie Anne's, and more. Most options are available after clearing security.
What is the best quick bite at XNA?
Auntie Anne's or Einstein Bros. Bagels (both Concourse A, near Gates A1–A2) — the fastest grab-and-go options closest to the front of the concourse.
Is there a sit-down restaurant at XNA?
Smokewood American Grill (Concourse A, near Gate A3) — XNA's only true full-service option, with Southern/BBQ-style plates and a bar.
How much does food cost at XNA?
XNA runs on the inexpensive end for airport dining — it's a small regional airport with a handful of local and regional operators rather than upscale destination restaurants; expect roughly $6–10 for coffee/pretzels and $12–20 for a Smokewood plate or brewery meal. Airport restaurants typically charge 20–40% above street prices. As a rough guide: $ = under $12, $$ = $12–25, and $$$ = over $25 per person.
Can I bring food through XNA security?
Yes — TSA allows solid foods through security checkpoints at XNA. You can bring a sandwich, snacks, fruit, or even a full meal from outside the airport in your carry-on. Liquids and gels over 3.4 oz are still restricted; soups, dips, and similar items must comply with the 3-1-1 rule. See the full policy in our guide.