New York’s JFK Terminal 4 recently welcomed two new local food and beverage brands, adding a touch of authentic New York flavor to the airport experience. This move is part of a larger effort to support diverse small businesses through unique concession partnerships.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, along with JFKIAT, the operator of Terminal 4, have announced the opening of two businesses that offer a taste of New York City’s diverse culinary scene. Villa Russo Café, a Queens-based business, is a graduate of the Port Authority’s specialized training program, which aims to increase the number of local and diverse businesses in the concessions program at JFK.
These new additions, Villa Russo Café and Brooklyn Tea & Market, are the first of many joint-venture partnerships between JFKIAT and HMSHost, a leading provider of airport dining and shopping experiences. These partnerships were formed through a competitive process to bring unique flavors and community-driven hospitality to Terminal 4. The chosen businesses received mentorship and operational guidance to successfully operate within an airport environment.
According to Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole, the goal is to make JFK Airport a reflection of the region it serves. He added, “New York and New Jersey are known around the world for distinct flavors and hospitality thanks to our region’s diversity, and we want air travelers to be able to get a sample of that upon arrival, for the duration of a layover, or as the last taste of an unforgettable trip to our region.
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton also expressed his excitement about local businesses expanding, especially those that are a part of the community served by JFK. He noted that Villa Russo, as a graduate of their Institute of Concessions, now represents a taste of New York City to millions of air travelers passing through Terminal 4 each year.
The collaboration between JFKIAT and HMSHost will continue to bring local businesses into the operations of concessions at Terminal 4. Through this program, business owners benefit from HMSHost’s mentorship, preparing them for potential opportunities to operate their own concession at JFK Airport in the future.
JFKIAT Chief Executive Officer Roel Huinink shared his enthusiasm for the two new concepts, stating, “These new concepts bring exceptional hospitality and distinctive offerings to our terminal, creating memorable experiences for travelers and highlighting the city’s rich culture. ” He added that these businesses offer a genuine taste of the city, even while in transit.
Anthony Alessi, Vice President of Business Development at HMSHost, also expressed his excitement about bringing Brooklyn Tea & Market and Villa Russo Café to JFK Terminal 4. He stated, “Both local family-owned favorites capture the flavor, traditions, and spirit that define the JFK community. ” Travelers can now enjoy an authentic taste of local culture from businesses that have been a part of the city’s fabric for a long time.
In conclusion, the addition of these two local businesses to JFK Terminal 4 highlights the airport’s commitment to providing an authentic New York City