SOF Connect and SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage (F&B) outlets in travel locations worldwide, have officially opened three new outlets in Terminal 2: Bar 09-27, Negroni and Upper Crust. These openings complete the landmark transformation of the F&B area, which occupies a space of over 1500 sq m. The opening was attended by H.E. Nathaniel Copsey – Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Bulgaria, Jesus Caballero – CEO of SOF Connect, George Antoniou – Managing Director of SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East and Christos Orthodoxou – SSP Managing Director for Eastern Europe
“It’s a real pleasure to join today’s opening of this vibrant new food and drink space at Terminal 2 — a dynamic blend of international, local, and British flavours, all brought together. I’m particularly proud to see a British company contributing to the traveller experience here in Sofia, especially as the UK remains the top destination from Vasil Levski Airport. I wish all the brands every success in their new home — serving passengers with warmth, efficiency, and excellent food.”, said H.E. Nathaniel Copsey.
“We are happy to enrich the area with venues that demonstrate our vision for a next generation airport – a place where passengers not only pass through but also experience. The new outlets meet the expectations of the modern traveler and increase the overall quality of the stay at the airport. This is another step towards transforming the capital’s airport into a 5-star regional hub.”, said Jesus Caballero.
“Our partnership with SOF Connect is based on the foundations of likeminded dedication to exceptional passenger experience, and it has been fantastic to help bring to life the team’s ambitious vision for Sofia Airport. Each of our F&B concepts has been chosen based on detailed insights into the preferences and expectations of today’s travelers, while of course keeping the essence of Bulgarian hospitality front and centre. We’re excited for our carefully curated lineup of international and bespoke brands to deliver the best part of the journey for all who pass through the terminal.” said SSP’s EEME Managing Director George Antoniou.
The modern area offers passengers a variety of quality brands and culinary experiences that combine the highest international standards and Bulgarian hospitality. The three new F&B outlets cover an area of nearly 1000 sq m and have a total of 281 seats – Bar 09-27 has 120 seats, while Negroni and Upper Crust have 54 – and the additional common area offers another 107 seats. The space is designed with an emphasis on passenger convenience, including takeaway options and a contemporary interior, in keeping with the rhythm of the airport.
The newly opened outlets include:
Bar 09-27 – a modern bar with an aviation character, inspired by the spirit of Bulgarian hospitality. Here, passengers can enjoy selected drinks in a cozy and elegant atmosphere. The name “09-27” is a reference to the runway of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, with the numbers reflecting its coordinates.
Negroni – is your neighborhood Italian kitchen specializing on Italian flavored dishes and, fresh, artisan pizzas with premium quality ingredients that are baked throughout the day
Upper Crust – an internationally recognized brand known for its freshly baked baguettes, snacks and coffee – a perfect choice for passengers on the go.
The project for the new F&B area at Terminal 2 began about a year ago when SOF Connect and SSP signed the contract for its implementation, and in April opened the first two outlets – Starbucks and Camden food co.
The next stage of the development of the F&B area will include more leading international and Bulgarian brands such as Burger King, TGI Fridays, Dao Dao – Asian Cuisine, Soul & Grain, Ta.Sh.Ba, Levito – Pizza Pasta and Meshana – Taste of Bulgaria, as part of the future Terminal 3.
You can see photos from the event at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/3nrcudrd
