Photo by Jamie Patricof
From Jamie’s Desk:
Like many of you, I attended a No Kings protest last Saturday and left feeling deeply inspired. Over the past few years, I’ve found myself at more demonstrations than ever before—and they’ve become something I look forward to.
There’s something remarkable about seeing millions of Americans gather across the country to stand up for the values that define us. I’m always moved by the organizers and speakers who lead with such clarity, and by the people who march. The kids, grandparents, and everyone in between who are peaceful, hopeful, and determined. Even when a few signs go too far, the message remains clear: people are frustrated by what’s coming out of the White House. And that frustration is only growing. This protest drew nearly 7 million participants, and that doesn’t even account for those who stayed home but share the same anger and exhaustion.
Soon we’ll see how that energy translates at the ballot box from the governor’s races in Virginia and New Jersey to California’s Proposition 50. If those races go the Democrats’ way, it will be proof that peaceful resistance is working and the system is holding. If not, we’re in for a harder fight ahead.
A quote from Thomas Jefferson stuck with me this weekend: “The greatest danger to American freedom is a government that ignores the Constitution.” Donald Trump has made it clear he’s willing to test those limits, but I remain hopeful that the system will hold and that the tide is beginning to turn.
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Discussed in this issue: Where to eat at the airport, Dodgers in the World Series, Rep. Ritchie Torres on this week’s Lunch With Jamie, an upcoming conversation with Senator Mark Kelly on 10/28.
Have a restaurant rec, cultural gem, can’t-miss event, or a hot sauce that changed your life? Send it my way: [email protected]
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It’s no secret that U.S. airports don’t quite compete with the dining scenes abroad. From the looks of it, I could probably live inside the Singapore airport for months and be very well fed. Which makes finding a good meal while traveling domestically feel like a small victory. Still, there are a few standouts worth the extra effort (or an earlier arrival). From the duck confit sandwich at One Flew South to Jean-Georges’ mid-century menu at JFK’s TWA Hotel, the Cajun-style seafood in Dallas, and even a Shake Shack breakfast (served daily from 7:30–10:30 AM at all airport locations) that’s actually worth showing up early for.
One new travel development that really stands out from the rest is the new Delta Lounge at JFK. It’s the first lounge in North America I actually get excited about when I have extra time. From the seating to the buffet to the full-service dining experience, Delta once again proves why it’s the best airline in America.
While I haven’t been to all of these (yet), we did our research and consulted with the crew to curate what we think is the ultimate airport restaurant list.
LaGuardia Airport
Photo by Bubby’s
Bubby’s: The Tribeca brunch favorite has brought its pancakes, biscuits, and comfort dishes to LGA. It’s one of the better sit-down options for early flights or longer layovers. Located in Terminal C.
Cotto: Opened in 2014 by Chef Michael White, Cotto brings a genuine Italian restaurant experience to LGA. The menu offers fresh pizza, pasta, antipasti, and paninis. Located in Terminal C.
Hill Country: Always a reliable stop for comfort food before a flight. Get the fried chicken tenders and waffle fries with a side of hot honey. Located in Terminal B.
Jersey Mike’s: One of the more solid options at any airport. It will never be your favorite sandwich, but it always works (make sure to get any dressing on the side). Located in Terminal C.
Junior’s: To be able to get one of the best cheesecakes in America at an airport is priceless. Located in Terminal B.
Magnolia Bakery: Arguably some of the best banana pudding in the world—at the airport, no less. It really doesn’t get better than this. There’s also an outpost in the new Moynihan Train Hall, which makes for the perfect travel-day treat (or a thoughtful gift). Located in Terminal C.
John F. Kennedy Airport
Photo by Jean Georges
Eataly: Set to open in Terminals 4, 5, and 8, Eataly will bring its signature mix of Italian restaurants, espresso bars, and market counters to JFK. It’s expected to be one of the most anticipated airport dining additions in the country.
Paris Café at the TWA Hotel: Located inside the restored TWA Flight Center, this Jean-Georges restaurant offers a refined take on mid-century travel dining. The menu draws inspiration from Trans World Airlines’ in-flight menus from the 1950s and ’60s, served in a bright, retro setting. The view of the runway is a cool bonus. Located in TWA Hotel Terminal 5.
TWA Food Hall: Also within the TWA Hotel, this casual food hall features New York staples like Feltman’s of Coney Island, known for their classic beef hot dogs, and Mister Softee. Everybody knows that there are no rules when traveling, so ice cream in the morning is encouraged. Located in TWA Hotel Terminal 5.
Los Angeles International Airport
Photo by LAX
Alfred Coffee: One of the best additions to LAX in years. Expect solid espresso drinks, pastries, and a reliably good cold brew. Located in Terminal 3.
EarthBar: You know I am rarely looking for the healthiest option, but EarthBar in an airport is a huge win. Ideal if you’re heading into an early flight or want something light before boarding. Located in Terminal 6.
Lotería Grill: Chef Jimmy Shaw’s beloved Mexican restaurant offers tacos, enchiladas, and aguas frescas in a casual, counter-service setup. This used to be the best option at the Farmer’s Market by the Grove, however it is no longer there, so I now look forward to getting it at LAX. Located in Terminal 5.
Panda Express: I have said it before and I will say it again, Panda Express is always a good option. Just make sure to keep an eye out for whatever just came out of the wok, the fresh stuff is the best. Located in multiple terminals.
Santouka Ramen: A branch of the respected Japanese chain serving tonkotsu and miso ramen with perfectly chewy noodles and rich broth. Located in Tom Bradley International Terminal.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Photo by Jamie Patricof
Chicken + Beer by Ludacris: One of the greatest Southern rappers serving Chicken and Beer, what could be wrong with that? This restaurant offers a modern take on Southern pub food with fried chicken, waffles, mac and cheese, and local craft brews. Located in Terminal D.
Ecco: This is a great spot for a sit down meal during those longer layovers. They have wood-fired pizza, steaks, and delicious pasta. And if pre-flight cocktails are your thing, their drink menu is pretty big. Located in Terminal F.
Krispy Kreme: It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t know Krispy Kreme—and sometimes, you just need a warm glazed donut before takeoff. Add a coffee and you’re good to go. Located in Terminal C.
One Flew South: Consistently ranked among the best airport restaurants in the world, and one of my all time favorites, One Flew South blends Southern flavors with global influences. The sushi rolls, duck confit sandwich, and craft cocktails make it worth arriving early for. The only challenge is you need an hour to eat there, maybe plan a longer layover on your next trip. Located in Terminal E.
Best of the Rest: A few other standouts across the country include Billy Goat Tavern & Grill at ORD in Chicago (Terminal 1), Brodard Express at John Wayne Airport (Terminal B/C), Ess-a-Bagel at Newark (Terminal A), Primanti Brothers at PIT in Pittsburg (Concourse C), The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que at DFW in Dallas (Terminal A), Snooze at DEN in Denver (Concourse B), and Velvet Taco at HOU in Houston (Gate 46).
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Every so often a guest reminds me why I started doing this in the first place. This week, that was Rep. Ritchie Torres. He’s fighting for the Bronx with common sense and strong convictions, breaking down barriers as he goes. He’s also a twin, something he corrected me on when I called him one-of-a-kind. (Fun fact: his mom named him after Ritchie Valens after watching La Bamba.)
We talked about his childhood in public housing, where he was raised by a single mom earning just $4.25/hour, and his path from college dropout to youngest elected official in NYC. “Before I’m a congressman,” he said, “I’m the son of my mother.”
When we discussed policy, Torres was direct. He insisted the Democrats' reluctance to budge on the current shutdown “isn’t performative, it’s substantive,” warning that expiring ACA premium tax credits could double health-care costs for millions–a large portion in red states. His biggest message to his fellow Democrats:
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