Dining at The Airplane Restaurant!


If you’re an aviation fan or simply love unique experiences, Colorado Springs has a spot that will take your meal to new heights — literally. I recently visited The Airplane Restaurant, a truly one-of-a-kind restaurant built around a fully intact 1953 Boeing KC-97 tanker, where you can actually dine inside the airplane fuselage. It’s half dining adventure, half museum tour, and all fun.



Panoramic view of multiple aircraft cockpit instrument panels showing various gauges, displays and controls.

I ordered a Reuben sandwich — and while it was a bit pricey, it wasn’t just lunch… it was an experience. The meal came with crispy sides and plenty of flavor, and when you factor in the atmosphere and the chance to dine in an actual aircraft cabin, that extra few bucks suddenly seems justified.

The Airplane Restaurant




The menu is classic American comfort — from burgers and salads to pastas and steaks — with some cleverly themed names that keep the aviation spirit alive.

Vintage control panel with analog gauges, switches, and dials in an industrial or transportation setting.
Vintage aircraft cockpit control panels showing complex arrays of gauges, switches and instruments in multiple views.
Interior view of a commercial aircraft cockpit showing flight instruments and controls in low light conditions.
Dark industrial control room with vintage machinery and equipment illuminated by warm lighting.

Why This Spot Stands Out?


Eating inside a vintage airplane makes this more than just a meal — it’s an unforgettable experience. Aviation memorabilia everywhere and even access to the cockpit for photos and exploration. Whether you’re a plane geek or just looking for something different, there’s something fun here for everyone. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than your average lunch spot — but considering the novelty, history, and sheer Instagrammable factor, I’d say it’s absolutely worth stopping by if you’re in the Springs.

A series of vintage aircraft noses lined up in a row against blue sky and tan buildings at an aviation museum.
A vintage US Air Force KC-97 Stratotanker aircraft displayed at an outdoor aviation museum against a blue sky.
Panoramic view of a rustic bar interior with wooden decor, bar stools, and ambient lighting creating a cozy atmosphere.
Interior of a rustic restaurant with wooden beams, track lighting, and dark booth seating in warm ambient lighting.
Empty restaurant interior with wooden beams and dark booths showing multiple angles of the dining space.
Military flight suits displayed on chairs in a room decorated with patches and American flags on the walls.
The Airport Restaurant

 

1665 Newport Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80916