Vanguard Kitchen

- 57 Newark International Airport St C Terminal, Newark, NJ 07114

Vanguard Kitchen offers New Jersey residents and travelers passing through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) an elevated, chef-driven American dining experience right in the heart of Terminal C. Classified officially as an American Restaurant and New American Restaurant, Vanguard Kitchen stands out within the busy airport environment by focusing on quality, seasonal fare—often described as “farm-to-terminal.” The menu, developed in conjunction with noted New York chefs, transcends typical airport food, providing a range of sophisticated options from gourmet appetizers and house-made pastas to high-quality steaks and fresh seafood.

The operational philosophy of Vanguard Kitchen is designed specifically for the transient environment of an airport, prioritizing efficiency without compromising quality. The establishment’s most recognized highlight is its **Fast service**, a critical feature for travelers under time constraints. It is one of the few places in the terminal that caters equally well to all major meal periods: **Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner**. This makes it a reliable destination regardless of a flight's scheduled departure or arrival time. Furthermore, the restaurant is notably **Popular for Solo dining**, offering a comfortable and efficient space for individual travelers to relax, work, and enjoy a premium meal before a flight.

The menu selection showcases the restaurant’s upscale approach to New American cuisine. Appetizers include refined options such as the **Vanguard Maryland Crab Cake** ($24.99), **Vanguard Tuna Tartare** ($24.99), and **Vanguard Whipped Feta** ($18.00). The entree selection is equally ambitious, featuring premium cuts like the **Vanguard Filet Mignon** ($51.99) and **Vanguard Grilled NY Strip** ($48.99), alongside signature seafood like the **Vanguard Scottish Salmon** ($29.99). Beyond the main dishes, the restaurant features an extensive beverage program, including a full bar offering classic and signature cocktails, an extensive coffee menu, and a notable selection of premium wine pours.

While the atmosphere is designated as ‘Casual,’ the setting and the caliber of the food clearly position Vanguard Kitchen as a terminal splurge, offering a luxurious moment before or after a journey. The entire operation supports modern convenience, accepting **Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments**, further streamlining the travel process for New Jersey users.

Vanguard Kitchen is located deep within the secured area of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) at **57 Newark International Airport St C Terminal, Newark, NJ 07114**. This highly specific location means the restaurant is exclusively accessible to ticketed passengers within Terminal C, the primary hub for United Airlines operations at EWR.

Its strategic positioning makes it an essential convenience for travelers, offering a high-quality dining experience where options are often limited. The restaurant demonstrates a commitment to universal accessibility, a crucial feature in a public travel space. Factual accessibility features include:

• **Wheelchair accessible entrance**
• **Wheelchair accessible restroom**
• **Wheelchair accessible seating**

The ease of access for all patrons, combined with the fact that it offers a full **Dine-in** service right inside the terminal, makes it a comfortable haven amid the fast pace of the airport. The primary crowd is noted to be **Tourists** and travelers, underscoring its role as a vital amenity for those passing through the major New Jersey travel hub. Customers can rely on the central Terminal C location for a final taste of New American cuisine before boarding their flight or as a welcoming first meal upon landing.

Vanguard Kitchen tailors its services to the unique demands of an airport environment, focusing on speed and quality:

• **Dine-in:** Offers a comfortable, casual setting for customers to sit and enjoy a full meal, from **Breakfast** through **Dinner**, often utilizing dedicated technology (such as ordering via a table code/iPad system) to ensure efficiency.
• **Takeout:** For travelers with very limited time, the restaurant provides a convenient option to grab their food—including a 'Quick bite' or one of the full-sized sandwiches or salads—to consume at the gate or on their flight.
• **Full Beverage Service:** Provides a wide array of **Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, and Wine**, allowing travelers to unwind with a premium pour before their journey.
• **Family Accommodation:** Features a dedicated **Kids' menu**, offering simple, appealing options like **Kids Buttered Noodles** and **Kids Grilled Cheese** ($12.29 each), making it viable for families traveling with children.

A key factual offering is the **UNICEF** donation option available on the menu ($1, $5, or $10), allowing patrons to contribute to the children of Ukraine, demonstrating a commitment to global relief efforts while providing dining services. The availability of **Coffee** and various juices and sodas throughout the day ensures all needs, from a quick caffeine fix (like a **Cold Brew Coffee** or **Espresso**) to a full dinner, are met.

Vanguard Kitchen’s highlights are defined by its dual commitment to high-end food quality and high-speed airport operation:

• **Chef-Driven New American Cuisine:** The menu is elevated beyond typical airport fare, offering premium items like **Vanguard Filet Mignon**, high-end pastas such as **Vanguard Chitarra Carbonara**, and the popular **Vanguard Maryland Crab Cake**.
• **Premium Beverage Program:** Features an extensive list of classic **Cocktails** ($17.00 - $19.00), including Manhattans and Aviation, along with a selection of premium, high-value **Wines** for connoisseurs, such as the Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon and Kistler Chardonnay.
• **Operational Efficiency:** Known for **Fast service**, catering to the time-sensitive needs of air travel, and popular for **Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner**, providing reliability throughout the day.
• **Appetizer and Dessert Focus:** Offers sophisticated small plates and starters, including the **Vanguard Tuna Tartare**, as well as dedicated, locally-named desserts like the **EWR Apple Crumb Pie** and **EWR Chocolate Cake** ($9.99 each).
• **Versatile Burger Selection:** Includes classic options like the **Vanguard All American Burger** ($23.00) alongside contemporary alternatives like the **Vanguard Impossible Burger™** ($21.99), ensuring options for various dietary preferences.
• **High Accessibility Standards:** Fully **Wheelchair accessible** in all key areas (entrance, restroom, seating), ensuring comfort for all travelers passing through EWR.

It is important for local New Jersey travelers to be factually aware of the operational style, which, while highly efficient, has been a source of customer contention. One review noted a mandatory minimum tipping policy and a lack of transparency regarding this policy and change being returned. While the food is objectively praised as a "terminal splurge" with "super nice service after we ordered off the table code," potential patrons should be prepared for a service model that is adapted to the high-volume, quick-turn environment of a major airport, where technology and standardized pricing are prioritized. Patrons are factually advised to clarify any service fee or tipping policies upfront to ensure a smooth, premium experience.

As an exclusive amenity within Newark Liberty International Airport, the most direct way for New Jersey travelers to interact with Vanguard Kitchen is to visit its precise terminal location. Contact details are:

• **Address:** 57 Newark International Airport St C Terminal, Newark, NJ 07114
• **Phone:** (866) 508-3558
• **Mobile Phone:** +1 866-508-3558

The centralized phone number may serve a broader operational group overseeing airport dining, but it is provided for customer communication. Given its location, the primary way patrons experience Vanguard Kitchen is by being physically present in Terminal C. The specific address in the secured area is key, and travelers should ensure they are flying out of, or connecting through, the appropriate terminal to access this unique dining opportunity. For payment, the restaurant facilitates rapid transactions by accepting **Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments**.

Vanguard Kitchen is worth choosing for New Jersey residents and travelers specifically needing a high-quality, full-service meal within the secured area of EWR Terminal C. It is a factual step up from standard fast-food options, offering a chef-driven, **New American menu** featuring premium choices like **Filet Mignon** and **Scottish Salmon**, making it the definitive terminal splurge. It is worth choosing for its exceptional **beverage selection**, including a wide variety of classic cocktails and high-end wines, perfect for starting a vacation. Furthermore, the establishment’s dedication to **Fast service** and its all-day availability for **Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner** make it a reliable choice regardless of your flight schedule. Finally, its features, including **Wheelchair accessibility** and a **Kids' menu**, ensure it is a viable and comfortable option for solo diners, business travelers, and families alike who are looking to elevate their airport experience.

Vanguard Kitchen

57 Newark International Airport St C Terminal, Newark, NJ 07114, USA