Golden Krust, the premier Jamaican fast-casual restaurant group, officially opened its first airport location at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, marking a major milestone for the Caribbean brand.
The new outpost is located at baggage claim carousel 7 in Terminal 8, which services airlines including American, Alaska, and British Airways, and forms part of the airport’s sweeping $19 billion renovation and expansion program.
The JFK location will serve Golden Krust’s signature offerings, including Braised Oxtail slow-cooked in rich gravy, spicy Jerk Chicken, and hearty Curried Goat. Sides include Fried Dumplings, Fried Sweet Plantains, Rice & Peas, and Steamed Vegetables. Travelers can also enjoy the brand’s iconic Jamaican patties, available in flavors such as beef, chicken, jerk chicken, and spinach.
“We’re proud to bring a taste of the Caribbean to one of the world’s busiest airports,” said Steven Clarke, Vice President of Marketing at Golden Krust. “Opening in JFK Terminal 8 is more than just a milestone for Golden Krust—it’s a chance to welcome travelers from around the globe with the warmth, heritage, and bold offerings that have defined our brand for over 35 years.”
“Bringing Golden Krust to JFK Terminal 8 has been a labor of love,” said franchisees Conroy and Samantha Champagne. “As someone who’s proudly operated Golden Krust restaurants across Queens for decades, opening in the airport is deeply meaningful—it’s a chance to showcase our Caribbean roots on a global stage, and to serve everyone from first-time visitors to familiar members of the diaspora with the same warmth and quality they expect from us.”
Founded in 1989 by Lowell F. Hawthorne and his siblings, Golden Krust traces its roots to Hawthorne & Sons Bakery, started by their parents in St. Mary, Jamaica in 1949. Since then, the family-run brand has expanded from a single Bronx location to more than 100 across eight U.S. states, and its products are now found in over 22,000 grocery stores nationwide. The company produces more than 50 million Jamaican patties each year and continues to serve as a cultural ambassador for Caribbean cuisine in the U.S.
Golden Krust at JFK Terminal 8 will be open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
