UAE, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, And Saudi Arabia Proudly Celebrate Eataly’s Monumental Expansion Into JFK Airport, Its First U.S. Travel Locations

Published on May 7, 2025

Eataly, the renowned Italian marketplace and high-end retail concept, is making its highly anticipated debut in the U.S. travel sector with the opening of three locations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This expansion, which marks Eataly’s first airport venture in the United States, is part of the brand’s broader global growth strategy, with significant contributions from regions such as the UAE, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia. These countries have been instrumental in Eataly’s international development, with the brand expanding rapidly across major cities and now bringing its authentic Italian culinary and retail experiences to one of the busiest airports in the world. By introducing Eataly’s unique offerings at JFK, the company aims to elevate the airport experience for travelers, combining the essence of Italian food and culture with the convenience and luxury expected from a leading global brand.

Eataly, the prestigious Italian marketplace and upscale retail brand, is set to launch its first U.S. travel locations at John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Kennedy International Airport (JFK) this year with three exciting new locations. This expansion marks Eataly’s first foray into the U.S. travel sector, adding to its impressive portfolio of over 50 stores worldwide, including 13 in North America. The brand will introduce its unique retail and dining experiences in terminals 4, 5, and 8, marking a significant step forward in their global strategy. These locations will be operated by HMSHost, a subsidiary of Avolta, the world’s largest airport retailer. The development of these spaces at JFK follows a series of contract wins for Avolta, including those at Terminal 5 (T5), awarded by Fraport USA, in collaboration with JetBlue, the primary airline operating in the terminal.

Eataly’s new venture at JFK seeks to offer travelers a true taste of Italian cuisine and shopping, embodying the brand’s extensive and successful international footprint.
The company, majority-owned (52%) by the European investment company Investindustrial, has big plans for these spaces, ensuring they are tailored to meet the specific needs of each terminal. This personalized approach mirrors the brand’s successful New York City locations in downtown, Flatiron, and Soho, each of which offers its own unique ambiance. Eataly is known for crafting retail environments that resonate with the surrounding community, and this expansion will be no different, creating a bespoke experience for passengers in each terminal.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees JFK, has played an integral role in the airport’s massive transformation. As part of an ambitious \$19 billion redevelopment project, the airport is undergoing major upgrades, including the construction of New Terminal One, where Duty Free Americas recently secured the core retail contract. The ongoing modernization at JFK focuses on enhancing the passenger experience by improving both retail and dining offerings, ensuring that the airport remains competitive and inviting for international travelers. Eataly’s introduction complements this larger vision, contributing to the enhancement of JFK’s reputation as a premier international hub.

Eataly has established itself as the “only truly global Italian food retail brand,” representing the pinnacle of Italian culinary craftsmanship. With its diverse locations in major European cities like Milan and London, and several successful establishments across the United States, the brand has established itself as a leader in high-end food retail. Known for offering a wide selection of gourmet products, Eataly’s concept is an ideal fit for airport locations where travelers seek quality dining and shopping experiences. The brand is dedicated to providing the best of Italy, with a focus on showcasing local ingredients and artisanal products that embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship.

In 2023, Eataly experienced significant growth, with sales hitting €656 million (\$744 million). This impressive figure underscores the success of the brand’s global expansion, particularly in North America, which now accounts for 61% of its revenue. This region has become a major driver of Eataly’s growth, as North American consumers continue to embrace the brand’s authentic Italian offerings. Eataly’s model is balanced between dining and retail, creating a seamless experience for customers who want to indulge in the best of Italian food, wine, and products while shopping or enjoying a meal.

The company’s international footprint continues to expand, with recent openings in cities such as Dubai, Tokyo, Istanbul, Seoul, and Riyadh. In addition to its physical locations, Eataly has ventured into launching Eataly-branded products, which have contributed to the brand’s growing presence worldwide. By offering high-quality, Italian-made goods in key global markets, Eataly is creating an immersive Italian experience that goes beyond its stores and restaurants.

At JFK, Eataly’s presence will be complemented by other exciting retail and dining options. HMSHost, which operates Eataly’s spaces, has also secured two contracts at Terminal 5. One of these contracts involves Hudson, a subsidiary of Avolta, which will open a Manhattan-inspired retail store as well as Gameway, the terminal’s first video gaming lounge. These spaces will offer passengers a range of experiences, from shopping for iconic New York products to enjoying interactive gaming in a modern lounge. Additionally, HMSHost will introduce six new dining establishments at T5, including Eataly, which will bring its signature Italian culinary experience to the terminal. Other new dining options will include Benateri’s, which will offer Italian sandwiches and deli experiences; Big Bourbon Bar NYC, showcasing locally sourced Hudson Whiskey NY; Dos Toros Taqueria, serving fresh Mexican cuisine; and Chopt, famous for its fresh salads and custom house dressings.

This expansion represents a bold new chapter for Eataly, as it seeks to introduce its innovative retail and dining concept to an entirely new audience: airport travelers. The brand’s reputation for providing an upscale yet accessible experience will appeal to the diverse international passengers who pass through JFK each day. The new Eataly outlets will allow travelers to immerse themselves in Italy’s rich culinary traditions, all while experiencing the convenience and high quality that the brand is known for.

Eataly is expanding its global footprint by opening its first U.S. airport locations at JFK, backed by international growth from regions like the UAE, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia, offering travelers an authentic Italian experience in one of the world’s busiest airports.

With its blend of high-end dining, gourmet retail, and a deep commitment to Italian culture, Eataly’s expansion at JFK is set to redefine what it means to shop and dine at an airport. By delivering authentic Italian experiences in one of the busiest travel hubs in the world, Eataly continues to expand its influence globally while offering new, exciting opportunities for passengers to enjoy luxury and quality during their travels. This move to JFK further cements the brand’s position as a leader in the international food and retail market, bringing the very best of Italy to a new generation of travelers.