Ciao Gourmet Market

For health-conscious travelers seeking quick, quality food options, Ciao Gourmet Market offers a refined take on airport dining. Located in Terminal 1, Concourse C near Gate C15, this Italian-inspired market brings fresh, pre-packaged meals and snacks with a gourmet touch-ideal for grabbing a nutritious bite between flights.

📍 Location

• Terminal 1, Concourse C, near Gate C15
• Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Operator: HMSHost
• Status: Open
• Contact: (773) 686-6180

🧺 Market Type & Atmosphere

• Type: Gourmet takeaway kiosk
• Vibe: Compact, no-frills kiosk in a bustling terminal with no dedicated seating
• Dining Setup: Takeout only-eat at nearby shared food court tables or at your gate

🥗 Menu Highlights & Prices (estimated)

Salads

• Tunarama Pasta Salad – Tuna, pasta shells, yogurt sauce, vegetables – $8-$12
• Classic Caesar – Romaine, parmesan, croutons – $8-$12

Sandwiches & Wraps

• Turkey & Gouda on Nine-Grain Bread – $8-$12
• Chicken Apple Walnut on Ciabatta – $8-$12
• Portobello Mushroom Wrap (vegetarian) – $8-$12

Snacks & Sweets

• Fresh Fruit Tray – Seasonal mix – $6-$10
• Gluten-Free Snacks – Chips, bars – $3-$6
• Desserts – Assorted pastries or packaged sweets – $4-$8

Drinks

• Bottled Water – $2-$4
• Soda / Iced Tea – $2-$4

💰 Average Spend: $8-$20 per person
💳 Payments Accepted: Credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay
🚫 No reservations, delivery, or seating

🌟 Why Choose Ciao Gourmet Market?

Inspired by Milan’s Ciao Ristorante, this kiosk provides a curated mix of gourmet selections designed for travelers on the go. With twice-daily restocks, the food aims to stay fresh throughout the day. The Tunarama pasta salad and turkey and gouda sandwich are regular bestsellers, praised for their quality-when well-stocked. The market also appeals to dietary-conscious flyers with vegetarian and gluten-free items, though vegan selections are limited.

⚠ What to Keep in Mind

Despite its polished presentation, Ciao Gourmet Market receives mixed reviews. Average ratings hover around 2.5-3.0 stars on Yelp and Tripadvisor.

Common Criticisms:

• Dry sandwiches: Some reviewers complain about the lack of condiments-grab a mustard or mayo packet if available
• High prices: Expect standard airport markups-$8+ for a sandwich may feel steep for pre-packaged fare
• Limited freshness during peak hours: Items can sell out fast, so early visits are best
• No seating or in-store assistance: It’s strictly grab-and-go, with minimal staff interaction

✅ Pro Tips

• Always check sandwiches for freshness and condiments
• If flying internationally, be aware that fresh fruits may not be allowed through customs
• Visit early in the day for the best selection and freshest items
• For those with dietary needs, ask about ingredients-especially for vegan options

🥪 Similar Options Nearby

• Saladworks (Terminal 1, Gate C19) – Fresh, customizable salads
• Tortas Frontera (Terminal 1, Gate B11) – Chef-driven Mexican cuisine
• CIBO Express Gourmet Market (Terminal 2, Gate E1; Terminal 3, Gate H1) – More upscale grab-and-go choices
• Eataly Chicago (downtown, during long layovers) – Full gourmet market experience

Bottom Line: Ciao Gourmet Market is a great solution for travelers prioritizing nutrition and convenience over sit-down meals. It’s not a budget-friendly stop, but it offers thoughtfully selected items for a quick and healthy bite when time-and seating-is limited.