SSP America has been awarded a contract to operate four units at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s (JFK) Terminal 6, continuing the food and beverage experts’ mission to provide an authentic taste of place throughout the airport. The venture builds on SSP’s highly successful operations at the airport, and its deep understanding of the local market. The offer will include both local favorites and celebrated SSP original concepts, in an offer that reflects the unique flavor profile of one of the USA’s most iconic travel destinations.
The new Terminal 6 at JFK is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of the airport into a world-class gateway. Currently under construction at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Terminal 6 is being developed in two phases, with the first six gates opening in 2026 and construction completion expected by 2028. Terminal 6 is a public-private partnership between the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners – a consortium that is led by Vantage Group. For SSP America, being selected to operate in this iconic new terminal is both a privilege and a testament to our commitment to delivering a true taste of place that reflects the spirit of New York.
JFK Millennium Partners Chief Executive Officer Steve Thody said, “Our vision for T6 is to create a welcoming dining experience that captures the essence of New York. SSP America shares that vision, bringing together exceptional local flavors, iconic brands, and hospitality that will resonate with travelers from around the world.”
For Five Coffee: Founded in 2010 in Queens, New York, For Five Coffee Roasters is a micro-roasting facility born from the dreams of two close friends. Committed to bringing the art of specialty coffee to the heart of the city, For Five has grown into a New York and national coffee powerhouse.
P. J. Clarke’s: A venerable Manhattan saloon and gastropub founded in 1884, nestled at the corner of Third Avenue and East 55th Street, P. J. Clarke’s is celebrated for its legendary “Cadillac” burgers and rich old-New York charm. It’s a wonderfully storied NYC brand, synonymous with culinary excellence across the region.
Le Grand Comptoir: Le Grand Comptoir is a proven, multi-award-winning, SSP proprietary concept designed specifically for the airport environment by SSP’s team of global food travel experts. Le Grand Comptoir promises travelers a pre-flight journey through calm surroundings, indulgent wines, hand-mixed cocktails, and delicious, chef-driven epicurean delights.
The Gotham Burger Social Club: The on-trend local name Gotham Burger Social Club serves classics such as burgers dressed with grilled onions, melted American cheese, house-made pickles, jalapeños, and Club Sauce. Its Western-inspired styling is warm, cozy, rustic and yet modern. For Five Coffee and P.J. Clarke’s will initiate service when T6 opens to the public later this year. Le Grand Comptoir and The Gotham Burger Social Club will open in phase two of T6 construction, which is expected to be completed in 2028.
SSP America Chief Development Officer Paul Loupakos commented, “Terminal 6 represents the future of air travel—digitally advanced, sustainably built, and deeply rooted in the culture of New York. Being part of this landmark development is a tremendous honor for SSP America. As food travel experts, we’re proud to contribute to a terminal that will redefine the passenger experience, bringing our taste of place philosophy to life with concepts that reflect the soul of the city. This is the best part of the journey, and we’re thrilled to help shape it.”
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About SSP
SSP Group, is a leading global operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations employing around 49,000 colleagues in over 3,000 units across 38 countries. We specialise in designing, creating and operating a diverse range of food and drink outlets in airports, train stations and other travel hubs across six formats: sit-down and quick service restaurants, bars, cafés, lounges, and food-led convenience stores. Our extensive portfolio of brands features a mix of international, national, and local brands, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients and customers. The SSP America team is driven by a shared vision to bring authentic restaurant experiences to every airport in North America. Our employees have a passion for exceptional food served by people who believe in heartfelt hospitality. Our airport partners trust SSP America to deliver a world-class portfolio of brands with broad passenger appeal and lasting commercial viability. Our brand heroes trust us to bring a taste of place to their hometown airport.
