William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) has opened two locally focused concessions: Killen’s Barbecue and SpindleTap Brewery. Killen’s, a Michelin Guide-featured, Houston-based barbecue brand helmed by Chef Ronnie Killen, will offer passengers the eatery’s signature brisket, ribs and other Texas fare while SpindleTap Brewery will serve up local craft beers. Both concessions will be operated by Areas USA.
“Hobby Airport is a point of pride for Houston and a powerful economic engine for our region,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “With the addition of two more local favorites, we are delivering on Mayor Whitmire’s call to support local businesses while highlighting the best our city has to offer. We want travelers to stop, dine and truly enjoy their time in our airports, because the Houston experience should begin the moment you walk through our doors.”
“I never thought that my dad’s name or my name would be in an airport,” added Chef Ronnie Killen. “It’s very exciting to see and to make sure the quality is just like it is at the restaurant. That’s what I wanted to do,” adding that “I don’t think there’s a restaurant inside an airport where the main business is eight miles down the road. If they need anything, we can get it over quickly. The closer it is, the more you can feel you have some control.”
