News

Two airport bars going fast casual with tableside iPad ordering

February 18, 2014

Concessions International will open two new bar concepts at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport this week, both with iPad-enabled ordering systems, according to a company press release.

Samuel Adams Atlanta and Dos Equis Explorer Lounge will both open in Concourse B and are the first restaurants at the airport to offer tabletop iPad ordering, allowing travelers to browse the full food and beverage digital menu and order in minutes, from every seat in both locations and check flight status, said CI President Anthony Joseph.

"We strive to bring travelers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience," he said. "The table-top ordering system allows travelers to order quickly without waiting for a server, so they can spend their limited time enjoying these well-loved brands in a warm, comfortable setting."

Thirty iPad tablets with custom designed, secure stands allowing for easy access will be used at both concepts with a full, digital menu that showcases digital imagery with the convenience of ordering and paying for food and drinks in a fast paced environment, the release said.

The wait staff is supported by a wireless paging system alerting them of ordering activity and requests for additional service. Guests also have the ability to check on weather or flight status in addition to playing games for entertainment. The software is provided by eTouch Menu and the menu design by Menu Masters, according to the release.

Samuel Adams Atlanta will offer its hand-crafted beers, along with a variety of American fare served from nearby restaurants, including Paschal' s, Little Azio's and Café Tazza.

"Through the power of mobile, we are able to offer our guests a wide variety of dining options through one central ordering platform, which also offers photos and more," said Joseph.

The Dos Equis Explorer's Lounge will be the first time the brand has opened in an airport environment. The lounge will feature a decor inspired by the journeys of the Dos Equis' "Most Interesting Man," according the release. The expanded menu is also available via iPad ordering and will feature an array of taquitos, fresh salads, wraps, nachos and Dos Equis signature drinks. Early morning travelers can also stop by the restaurant for Mexican-inspired breakfast dishes.

The Dos Equis Explorer's Lounge and Samuel Adams Atlanta will be operated by a joint venture between CI and H&H Hospitality, a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise owned by Kevin Holt and Randy Hazelton, founders and former operators of Café Circa, located in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward.

Concessions International operates numerous national and local QSR, fast casual and casual dining brands in eight airports across the U.S. and U.S. Virgin Islands. Dos Equis Explorer Lounge and Samuel Adams Atlanta join CI's other newest ventures, Lottafrutta and Fresh To Order, also located in the renovated Concourse B terminal.

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