Concessions International (CI), a leading airport concessionaire, announced it will open the newest dining option at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) — American Tap Room. The full service gastropub will be located in the initial phase of the food and retail redevelopment program at Reagan National. Five new restaurants and seven new retailers will open in 2014, with significant announcements expected in the further development stages.
This is CI’s first contract at Reagan Airport and was awarded by MarketPlace Development, manager of the airport’s retail program. Atlanta-based CI operates national and regional brands in eight other airports in the U.S. and U.S. Virgin Islands, including at its home airport, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson.
“We are pleased to have an opportunity to be a part of this exciting expansion at Reagan National, and to expand our vision of bringing local flavor to airports,” says Donata Russell Major, CI chief executive. “American Tap Room will be a warm welcome for those coming home while giving a taste of the region to travelers passing through.”
CI’s entry into Reagan is the first step in a strategic approach by the company into the DC-Baltimore metropolitan area, with locations targeted at Reagan National Airport, Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.
American Tap Room, which will open in May 2014 in Terminal C, is a shining example of CI’s commitment to creating a sense of place for airport travelers by showcasing beloved local brands. The Reston, Virginia-based tavern is a popular destination at its five locations throughout Virginia and Maryland, with offerings that combine the best of the past traditions with a contemporary and sophisticated setting and classic grill menu. The restaurant will feature a new menu designed for travelers in a hurry, while also offering a full service menu for guests interested in a more leisurely dining experience.
“We respect CI’s vision to bring local and unique restaurants to major airports,” says Warren Thompson, CEO and founder of Thompson Hospitality, which owns American Tap Room. “Through their leadership, we have the opportunity to open our first-ever airport location and introduce American Tap Room to millions of travelers from all around the globe each year.”
The American Tap Room location will be operated by a joint venture between Concessions International and MBC, Inc., a certified Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. This will be the third location operated by this joint venture. Others include Einstein Bros Bagels in Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Genghis Grill opening 2014.
