LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OPENS NEW RESTAURANTS
FEATURING POPULAR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FAVORITES

         (Los Angeles, California – October 15, 2008) Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and HMSHost Corporation today announced the opening of five new restaurants at Los AngelesInternationalAirport (LAX), giving passengers dining choices that are favorites of Southern Californians.  

            La Brea Bakery , known for fresh-baked artisan breads matching a variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner menu offerings, has opened in three terminals, Terminal 1 (Southwest Airlines and USAirways), Terminal 2 (13 international airlines) and Terminal 7 (United Airlines).  Since opening in Los Angeles 20 years ago, this is La Brea Bakery’s first entry into the airport market. 

            Baja Fresh joins La Brea Bakery at Terminal 7.  The Newberry Park-based company offers fresh ingredients in quick, casual Mexican dishes with roots in Southern California.

            On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina serves passengers in Terminal 4 (Delta Airlines) with freshly prepared traditional Mexican favorites and mesquite-grilled specialties.  The restaurant is part of Dallas-based Brinker International.       

            LAWA Deputy Executive Director for Commercial Development Debbie Bowers joined HMSHost officials and Los Angeles-based food operator La Brea Bakery at the opening ceremony in Terminal 7.

            Bowers said, “LAX serves a wide range of travelers – business, leisure, travel groups and families.  We are pleased that HMSHost, our concession business partner, is enhancing the  variety of food offerings to the traveling public.  We expect travelers will find much to tantalize the palate.” 

            Steve Johnson, HMSHost senior vice president for business development, echoed Bowers about the new additions.  “Los AngelesInternationalAirport travelers expect and deserve variety and quality, which these highly-favored brands represent.  We’re committed to working with local businesses and bringing LAX’s travelers outstanding dining options that showcase a flavor of the city.”

            John Yamin, chief executive officer of La Brea Bakery, said his firm is excited about the opportunity to partner with HMSHost to bring its great food to people from around the world.  “HMSHost's program enables the bakery to serve quality breads, sandwiches and salads in airports everywhere.  HMSHost is by far the leader in the industry, and it is an honor to have them operating our La Brea Bakery .”                                       

            Later this year, HMSHost plans to open Gladstone’s Seafood in Terminal 3. Gladstone’s landmark restaurant in Malibu is a popular destination restaurant for both residents and visitors to Los Angeles.