4 things you missed most about P. F. Chang's at TPA

TPA’s biggest restaurant is now open in the Main Terminal – and passengers are pretty excited.

P. F. Chang’s is the latest of more than nearly three dozen restaurants to reopen since since the COVID-19 pandemic dropped passenger levels to a slow trickle, forcing the majority of Airport options to temporarily close. To date, about 80 percent of TPA's restaurants are open.

This opening of one of TPA's most prominent options is a sign that business at the Airport is on an upward trajectory. With Spring Break now well underway, TPA is seeing some pre-pandemic-like numbers with as many as 60,000 travelers a day during recent weekends.

“P. F. Chang’s is one of our cornerstone restaurants in the Main Terminal and we’re very excited to have it open,” said Kate Webb, TPA's Director of Concessions. “We’re ready to welcome our passengers back with safe, comfortable dining options as they travel.”

The restaurant originally opened at the Airport in July 2016 and has been a passenger favorite ever since thanks to its food, ambiance and unique extras.

Here are four things you missed about P.F. Chang’s, even if you didn’t know you missed them:

The outdoor patio

In Florida, outdoor eating is optimal just about any time of the year, but the patio at P. F. Chang’s takes the experience to a new level. Watch the SkyConnect trains glide to and from the Rental Car Center as you enjoy sushi and a Spirit of Flight cocktail (Tampa International Airport's official cocktail). Worried about getting a little warm? The patio is a fully covered space and massive fans spin high above the seating areas, keeping the area constantly cool and comfortable.

The food

Starters, spring rolls and salads are just a few of the items you can order at this Asian-inspired restaurant. Other favorites include:

• Chang’s lettuce wraps - made famous by their “secret family recipe” and well-known as their signature dish
• Chang’s spicy chicken - another signature dish with grilled chicken smothered in a sweet-spicy chili sauce
• Signature lo mein - made up of wok-tossed noodles, mushrooms, Asian vegetables, savory soy

The drinks

Be it the Airport's signature cocktail, the Spirit of Flight, or a Chang’s mai tai, this TPA restaurant has all you’d need for your pre- or post-flight cocktail desires. With two full bars, one inside and one on the patio, snag a seat and order your favorites. TPA reminds you to please drink responsibly.

The anticipation (waiting for a flight or a loved one)

Everyone knows that special feeling of waiting to board a flight heading to your next vacation or to visit loved ones – it’s indescribable. Take in the excitement and anticipation in the calm ambiance of one of TPA’s largest restaurants. Waiting for a loved one to arrive? Nothing says, “Welcome to Tampa” better than patio-side Asian tapas and happy hour.

P. F. Chang’s has been a passenger favorite since it opened its doors in 2016. Today, the restaurant is open and thriving with a safe, comfortable environment for all to enjoy.

Not traveling, but still want to visit? Take advantage of our one-hour free parking in our Long or Short Term Garages.