SSP America has been awarded a contract to operate more than 10 units at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s (JFK) Terminal 5 (T5), enhancing the food and beverage options at the iconic travel hub as part of a major refresh of airline JetBlue’s flagship terminal. The move builds on SSP’s strong relationship with Fraport USA, and strong track record of operating at the city’s leading airport. In addition to the already open local favorites Jacob’s Pickles and Leon’s Bagels, the expansion includes beloved New York staples and internationally recognized names, providing locals and visitors an authentic taste of place.
Mister Paradise: Mister Paradise is a vibrant cocktail bar in the East Village known for its tropical-inspired drinks and colorful, retro decor. It offers a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and enjoying creative, expertly crafted New York cocktails.
Dunkin’: The popular global brand is the largest coffee and donut chain in the US, renowned for its wide variety of coffee, iced beverages, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches. Founded in Massachusetts, Dunkin’ focuses on providing quick, affordable, and convenient options for guests on the go. The brand has expanded to over 14,000 locations in nearly 40 international markets.
Shake Shack: Shake Shack serves elevated versions of American classics using only the best ingredients. It’s known for its delicious made-to-order 100% Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hand-spun milkshakes, house-made lemonades, beer, wine, and more. With its high-quality food at a great value, warm hospitality, and a commitment to crafting uplifting experiences, Shake Shack has quickly become a cult-brand with widespread appeal. Shake Shack’s purpose is to Stand For Something Good®, from its premium ingredients and employee development, to its inspiring designs and deep community investment.
Birch Coffee: Birch Coffee is a popular New York City café known for its expertly brewed coffee and welcoming, library-inspired atmosphere. Since 2015, Birch Coffee has been roasting its coffee in Long Island City, where craft and consistency come together. Each coffee that is sourced is given its own unique roasting profile—because every region, every farm, every coffee deserves thoughtful attention.
Tiki Chick: Tiki Chick is a vibrant, tiki-themed bar known for its elevated tropical cocktails, laid-back island vibes, and iconic chicken sandwiches. Located on the Upper West Side, it offers a fun escape with colorful decor, a one-of-a-kind frozen piña colada, and a playful atmosphere to help transport guests into a little slice of paradise.
Juice Press: Juice Press is the leading innovator and source of plant-based food and beverages, making it easier for customers to make healthy, delicious, and environmentally friendly choices. Offering organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and acai bowls, Juice Press is known for its commitment to wellness and emphasizes clean ingredients as well as sustainable practices.
The Gotham Burger Social Club: The Gotham Burger Social Club is a white-hot, true local brand serving universally appealing burgers kicked up a notch with grilled onions, melted American cheese, signature pickles, jalapeños, and Club Sauce, and other Insta-worthy dishes. Gotham Burger Social Club has a warm, Western-inspired interior—think open-kitchen bar, cozy booth seating, and rustic yet modern styling.
Threes Brewing: The Brooklyn-born brewery is celebrated for its commitment to crafting approachable beers that balance simplicity with complexity. The brewery is known for its popular and award-winning flagship beers—Vliet, Logical Conclusion, Gowanus Gold, and All or Nothing—as well as limited-edition and seasonal beers. They have locations in Gowanus, Greenpoint, Governors Island, and Huntington, Long Island, and are deeply integrated into the neighborhoods they serve, acting as community-based hubs for live music nights with local artists and private events.
Blind Barber: Blind Barber started out as a unique hybrid barbershop and cocktail lounge experience, offering classic grooming services by day and transforming into a lively bar scene by night. Founded in 2010 in New York City’s East Village, it’s known for its speakeasy vibe, signature drinks, and stylish atmosphere. Today, Blind Barber has expanded beyond the chair with a full line of award-winning grooming products—recognized by the editors of GQ, Men’s Health, Forbes, and Allure—bringing the barbershop experience home.
SSP America’s Chief Development Officer Paul Loupakos commented, “Terminal 5 has long been a symbol of customer-focused innovation, and its refresh is a bold step forward in creating a more immersive, New York-inspired experience. SSP America is honored to be part of this transformation, curating a portfolio that celebrates the city’s culinary diversity and vibrancy. Our mission is to make the airport the best part of the journey—and in T5, that means delivering heartfelt hospitality and a true taste of place that travelers will remember.”
The refresh of JFK T5 included the addition of a number of new concessions and new amenities including art installations and a redesigned central concourse inspired by New York’s fabled parks. Additional concessions are due to open in 2025, with the improvements completed by the end of 2026.
Jose Cuevas, vice president of operations for Fraport New York, added, “We’re proud to introduce these new dining concepts to JFK T5, each bringing its own authentic flavor and character that capture the energy of New York. Together, they elevate the experience in the terminal, offering customers more variety, higher quality, and a true taste of the city before they take flight.”
Fraport USA is a leading developer and operator of retail, dining, and service programs at major airports across the United States. At JFK, Fraport serves as the concessions developer/manager for T5, partnering with JetBlue and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to deliver a best-in-class commercial experience. As part of the ‘T5 Refresh’ program, more than 40 new concessions will be introduced, including over 18 local food & beverage and retail concepts, and a redesigned central concourse will bring a ‘New York parks’-inspired ambiance with greenery, park benches, concrete chess tables, and warm lighting, and a local art initiative. The project aligns with the Port Authority’s broader $19 billion redevelopment of JFK. Fraport USA’s work at T5 not only elevates the culinary and shopping environment, but also reinforces job creation, community-business partnerships, and economic growth in the region.
