Ninoy International Airport Ranked 7th Worldwide for Best Layover Food Options

Good news for travellers passing through Manila. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has recently earned a spot among the world’s top airports for layover food, highlighting the variety of dining options available to passengers waiting between flights.

The ranking comes from a study by UK travel group Airport Parking and Hotels, which analysed major airports around the world based on factors such as the number of food outlets and the variety of choices available to travellers during layovers. In the results, NAIA placed seventh globally, putting Manila’s main gateway alongside some of the most well known airports in the world.

For many travellers, layovers can feel like the slowest part of a trip. Long waits at the airport often mean searching for something to eat while passing the time before the next flight. At NAIA, however, passengers have access to a wide range of dining options that make those waiting hours a little more enjoyable.

Across its terminals, travellers can find everything from quick snacks and coffee to full meals. Popular international chains sit alongside local Filipino favourites, giving passengers plenty of choices depending on what they are craving. Whether it is a quick bite before boarding or a sit down meal during a long connection, the variety helps create a better airport experience.

For international visitors, the airport can also serve as a small introduction to Filipino flavours. Many travellers passing through Manila get their first taste of local cuisine right at the terminal, whether through classic rice meals, comforting noodle dishes, or sweet Filipino treats.

The study placed NAIA among several globally recognised airports known for their facilities and passenger experience. Leading the list is Singapore Changi Airport, which is famous for its massive dining selection and airport attractions. Other airports included in the ranking are O'Hare International Airport, Tokyo Haneda Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Istanbul Airport.

Landing in the global top ten for layover food is a positive sign for NAIA, which has often faced criticism over the years for congestion and ageing facilities. Recognition like this highlights an area where the airport is able to stand out: its wide selection of dining options that help make layovers more enjoyable for travellers.

The news has also been generating buzz online, with many people celebrating the ranking as a win not just for the airport but also for Filipino food and hospitality. After all, food plays a big role in the travel experience. A good meal can turn a long layover into a relaxing break before the next journey begins.

For travellers flying in or out of Manila, the next layover at NAIA might be the perfect chance to explore the airport’s dining spots and discover something delicious before heading to the next destination.