In 2025, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) set new records in food and beverage sales, with travelers purchasing 1,754,212 tacos throughout the year. This surpassed previous years and demonstrated the popularity of local cuisine among passengers.
Barbecue was also in high demand at AUS. Passengers consumed 94,249 pounds of brisket during the year. A marketing representative described this as “practically seven elephants’ worth of brisket if that helps you picture it.”
Local bars at the airport contributed to a lively atmosphere by serving over 469,956 beers and 91,320 glasses of wine. The Beerdrop accounted for 26,585 beers and 9,111 glasses of wine served.
Healthier options were also popular among travelers. JuiceLand blended 216,903 smoothies and prepared 10,641 juices. Jugo added another 52,162 smoothies and 20,500 juices. Berry Austin provided 32,146 acai bowls. In total, more than 300,000 fresh drinks were sold to passengers.
24 Diner continued its tradition of homestyle meals by preparing 86,273 eggs and flipping 26,294 burgers. The diner also served 27,835 beers to travelers.
Souvenirs reflecting Austin’s culture remained in demand. Travelers purchased 17,411 units of Keep Austin Weird merchandise and bought 6,614 bottles of Music Water to support local artists. Additionally, they acquired 6,573 guitar picks.
The airport highlighted its commitment to supporting small businesses through its Journey With AUS expansion program: “Through our expansion and development program, Journey With AUS, we’re committed not only to giving travelers a true taste of the city we love but also to creating more opportunities for small, local businesses to leave their mark on travelers from around the world.”
Austin’s municipal government manages a budget of $5.9 billion and employs more than 16,000 staff members across various departments according to its official website. The city emphasizes diversity and inclusion as key values in achieving organizational goals (source). It has received high ratings for services compared to other large cities (source) and maintains historic sites such as Oakwood Cemetery and Zilker Botanical Garden within its park system (source). Fostering community pride and sustainable development is central to Austin’s vision for being one of the most livable cities (source).
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