How food delivery works in the sterile zone at Pulkovo: a new service for passengers

New way to snack at Pulkovo

If you fly out of St Petersburg often, you probably know how hard it is to find food in the sterile area for domestic flights. Until recently that part of the airport only had vending machines and tiny cafés, and their selection left much to be desired. Now Pulkovo offers a fix – a delivery service that brings meals right to your gate.

How to place an order?

The system is as simple as possible. After security you can walk up to any ticket counter and ask to have a delivery arranged. Another option is to use the interactive self‑service terminal in the waiting area. The screen lets you pick a dish from the menu, then the system records your request.

Where do you get the food?

Your order won’t wait at the check‑in desk. Once you’ve placed it you’ll receive a note telling you that the meal will be delivered to a dedicated spot under the tables where drinks are usually placed. That spot is right next to the boarding gates, so you don’t have to wander to another part of the terminal.

What can you actually order?

At launch the service works with a single provider – the “Rostik’s” chain of cafeterias. The menu covers the basics: soups, hot dishes, salads and desserts. It isn’t as extensive as a full‑scale restaurant, but it covers the typical needs of a traveler who wants a quick bite without fuss.

Pros and cons of the new format

Pros

• Convenience – no need to hunt for a free table in a café, everything is brought to you.
• Time saving – the order is placed in a few clicks, and you pick it up right where you’re waiting to board.
• Quality control – the food comes from a vetted chain, which guarantees a certain level of taste and hygiene.

Cons

• Limited assortment – only one brand is available for now, so the choice of dishes is narrow.
• Possible queues – during peak hours a short delay between ordering and receiving can appear.
• Domestic‑area only – the service doesn’t work in the international terminals, where demand could be higher.

What does this mean for the future?

Launching delivery inside the sterile zone opens up new possibilities for airport services. As demand grows we can expect competitors, a broader menu and mobile apps that give more flexible order management. Already other operators are showing interest, seeing such solutions as a way to boost passenger comfort.

Practical tips for travelers

1. Plan ahead – if you know you’ll be at Pulkovo during rush hour, place your order right after security to avoid lines.
2. Mind the boarding time – order no later than one and a half to two hours before departure, so you have time to collect the food and settle before boarding.
3. Watch the signs – after ordering you’ll be shown the pick‑up point number; keep it handy so you can find the spot quickly.
4. Don’t forget drinks – the pick‑up point usually holds only food, so grab coffee or juice from the vending machines beforehand.

How does this fit into the wider picture of Russian airports?

In recent years many of Russia’s major airports have been testing new services: from mobile check‑in apps to automated baggage drops. Pulkovo, one of the busiest hubs, is keeping pace with the trends. Introducing food delivery in the sterile zone is a logical step, given the rise in domestic flights and the growing demand for passenger comfort.

Final thoughts

For anyone who values time and doesn’t want to wander the terminal hunting for a bite, the new Pulkovo service is a pleasant surprise. It’s still limited to a single supplier, but it already saves a few extra steps and queues. If you’re traveling through St Petersburg, give the delivery a try – it’s an easy way to make the wait a bit nicer.

Based on materials from: frequentflyers.ru.