Local concept Throughgood Bistro at HOU is now a national standout
Less than six months after opening, the airport restaurant with a social mission has earned one of North America's top concessions awards.
Jun 27, 2025
Houston’s culinary scene just scored another win—this time for Houston Airports.
Less than six months after opening inside William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), Throughgood Bistro & Bar has earned national recognition as one of North America's best new airport dining experiences.
The quick-service concept, operated by Areas USA, was named Best New Food and Beverage (Quick-Service Concept) by Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) during the 2025 Excellence in Airport Concessions Awards. The announcement was made at the ACI-NA Business of Airports Conference in Arlington, Texas, on June 25.
“I congratulate this year’s honorees for their dedication and collaboration, not only with national brands, but also with the local restaurants and retailers that make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve,” said ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke.
Throughgood Bistro, which opened in February, is a Houston-grown concept offering paninis, salads and sandwiches. Its full bar showcases selections from local breweries and Texas distilleries. Guests order at the counter and can dine at the bar or one of several nearby tables. The location—in Hobby Airport's pre-security Ticketing Lobby—makes it accessible to travelers and the public.
The airport debut builds on the reputation of the original Throughgood Coffee and Bistro, a now-closed Houston Heights café founded by Pastor Rudy Rasmus of St. John’s United Methodist Church. A portion of proceeds from all airport purchases support the Bread of Life Foundation, a nonprofit Rasmus co-founded to combat homelessness in Houston.
“This isn’t just about serving good meals quickly in an airport,” said Francisco Cuellar, chief commercial officer for Houston Airports. “It’s about proving that concepts that reflect the values of the city we serve can also thrive on a national stage.”
The win marks another milestone for Houston Airports and its evolving concessions strategy, which is gaining national recognition. By prioritizing local representation, raising the bar for quality and developing a stronger sense of place, the airport system is reimagining what airport dining can be.
In April, Velvet Taco, a Houston-born favorite, was named Best Quick-Serve Restaurant Concept at the Airport Experience Awards. That honor came just one year after the restaurant opened its first airport location at Hobby, through a partnership with LaTrelle’s Management Corporation. It also marked a full decade since Velvet Taco debuted on Washington Avenue.
More growth is ahead. Later this year, Houston Airports will launch four additional restaurants at Hobby: Killen’s Barbeque, Common Bond Bistro and Bakery, SpindleTap Brewery and Yard House. The openings mark the start of Phase 3 in the airport system’s multi-year effort to overhaul concessions at the 5-star Skytrax-rated airport. Each concept adds something distinct: Killen’s, a Michelin Guide-recognized barbecue institution; Common Bond, a cult-favorite bakery and brunch destination; SpindleTap, one of Houston’s highest-rated breweries; and Yard House, a national chain that will debut a Houston-focused design and feature the world’s largest draft beer selection.
Earlier this year, Skytrax ranked George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) among the Top 10 Best Airport Dining Experiences in the World.
“This latest recognition is a testament to our commitment to showcasing the best of Houston inside our airports,” said Libby Hurley, director of concessions for Houston Airports. “Throughgood is a celebration of what can happen when local culture, social impact and strong partnerships come together.”
According to ACI-NA, the annual Excellence in Airport Concessions Awards “recognize airports, concessionaires, and industry business partners for their work in elevating the passenger experience for all travelers.”