Syracuse, New York – February 2, 2024 – The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) and Gideon Toal Management Services (GTMS) proudly announced plans today for two new food and beverage concepts at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR). GTMS is a Department of Transportation (DOT) certified Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) who currently operates the widely lauded Escape Lounge at SYR.

The SRAA and GTMS have finalized an agreement for GTMS to open and operate a Qdoba Mexican Eats and Einstein Bros Bagels at SYR, securing the project through a successful bid last fall. Qdoba is slated to be located in the post-security checkpoint hallway leading to Concourse A gates, positioned conveniently next to the Escape Lounge. Meanwhile, Einstein Bros. Bagels will occupy a newly planned extension at the end of Concourse B.  This exciting addition to the airport’s concessions is made possible, in part, by the $20 million grant awarded to SYR in September through the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to enhancing airport facilities in Upstate New York through this Upstate Airport Economic Development Grant,” said SRAA Executive Director Jason Terreri.  “The Governor’s leadership has been instrumental in driving economic development initiatives that benefit our communities now and help foster economic growth for the future of Central New York and beyond.”

“We are thrilled to expand our existing relationship with GTMS to bring a fresh and elevated dining experience to travelers at Syracuse Hancock International Airport,” said SRAA Chief Commercial Officer Jason Mehl. “Qdoba Mexican Eats and Einstein Bros. Bagels are beloved national brands, and we are confident this collaboration will not only meet – but exceed – the expectations of our passengers while expanding the food and beverage offerings here at SYR.” 

Both food and beverage concepts are anticipated to commence operations at different points throughout 2024. The quick serve nature of each will help the airport meet the demand for more grab-and-go options, especially during peak travel hours. The airport sees most of its traffic in three distinct “banks” – or clusters of outgoing flights – most days from 4:00 a.m. – 6:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. – noon, and 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m..

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority for choosing Gideon Toal Management Services, Qdoba and Einstein Bagels as their partner,” said Gideon Toal Management Services President Alvin Brown, Ph.D. “We are honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with such esteemed airport professionals. This partnership is built on a foundation of shared values, trust, and excellence. We are committed to leveraging our expertise and resources to deliver exceptional concepts that enhance the experience for Syracuse Hancock International Airport travelers.”

As SYR continues to grow and evolve, the SRAA remains committed to providing travelers with an array of high-quality dining options. This collaboration with GTMS represents a significant step forward in achieving that vision.

Central New York travelers can fly directly to 30 destinations via nonstop flights with nine airlines now operating regularly scheduled flights at SYR.

Learn more about amenities at SYR here and view SYR terminal maps here.