The Melt, a San Francisco-founded fast-casual burger brand, is getting ready to open its first airport location at San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 in San Francisco.
The company’s new location is set to open sometime in May 2026, according to a press release, marking its first entry into an airport setting. While an exact opening date has yet to be announced, the expansion brings the Bay Area brand to a high-traffic travel hub. Customers can expect the full menu of burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken, and sides, along with new offerings tailored to the airport environment.
Founded in San Francisco in 2011, The Melt has grown steadily, now operating seven locations in the Bay Area and 20 across California and Arizona. The upcoming SFO restaurant represents a notable step as the brand continues expanding its reach. The company has reported consistent sales growth over the past six years, reflecting steady demand for its menu and concept. This airport opening introduces the brand to a broader audience, including travelers from outside the region.
The Melt is known for its focus on comfort food made with all-natural ingredients. Its signature MeltBurger features a blend of Angus and Wagyu beef, cooked with aged cheddar directly on the grill. The menu also includes grilled cheese sandwiches, buttermilk-brined chicken, mac and cheese, fries, and hand-spun shakes. These items will be available at the SFO location alongside new additions.
The airport restaurant will introduce a breakfast menu created specifically for travelers, expanding service to early hours. It will also feature the Harvey Milkshake, a vanilla shake with rainbow sprinkles created as a nod to the terminal’s namesake. Peet’s Coffee will also be served, adding another Bay Area brand to the lineup.
The SFO opening is part of a broader growth plan for 2026, with the company expecting to open 10 new locations in California by the end of the year. This will bring its total footprint to 30 restaurants. The airport location reflects the company’s continued expansion into high-traffic environments while maintaining its core menu and approach.
“Since our founding in 2011, The Melt has undergone a significant evolution, building our reputation on melty burgers and other comfort food favorites made with real, all-natural ingredients,” Ralph Bower, CEO at The Melt, said in a press release. “We’re genuinely proud of the food we serve and strive to make every guest have an ‘I love it here’ experience. SFO gives us the chance to share that with people who haven’t found us yet, including travelers from across the country and around the world experiencing The Melt for the first time. There’s something fitting about introducing the brand to a global audience from the city where it all started.”
