Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has today opened a dining area within Gatwick airport.

Oliver has opened a restaurant facility designed exclusively for the North Terminal which includes the premiere of a ‘grab and graze‘ Jamie‘s Italian Bakery concept allowing passengers to eat baked goods on the go or to take with them onto their flight.

An astounding take over of this designated area of the airport sees a landmark 6, 000 ft being occupied by the entrepreneur‘s chain; 40 per cent larger than the kitchen spaces in his other restaurants.

Jamie‘s first Italian Bakery‘s offering will provide a wide choice of freshly prepared produce overnight for those coming off a morning flight including jams, focaccia bread, homemade pizza and brownies.

A new concept known as the Union Jacks Bar will serve traditional British fare including scotch eggs and homemade pickles, incorporating a theme of nationalism in time for the London Olympics.

Jamie Oliver, who ended his long-standing relationship with grocer Sainsbury‘s last year, is delighted to see his latest restaurant portfolio expansion at one of the UK‘s busiest airports.

“Opening this restaurant in the airport is a new and exciting step to take,” he commented.

“Whether you want to dine in the Italian, grab food for the flight from the bakery, or savour some good old Blighty grub before you jet off, this is something really special, just for Gatwick.”

In another first, designers have created a gas supply for the dining area which the airport is hoping to roll out for other facilities on the site.

Installing new retail spaces and in-store technology is part of a £1.3 billion current transformation of Gatwick making it a modern gateway for international travel.

Spencer Sheen, Head of Retail at Gatwick Airport is excited about the addition, believing it will enhance the passenger experience.

He said: “We‘re thrilled Jamie Oliver chose to open his first ever restaurant in an airport at Gatwick.

“Passengers have called for a greater variety of dining options in the departure lounges, and our partnership with Jamie Oliver sees Gatwick taking yet another step in significantly enhancing the passenger journey to, through and from the airport.

“This exclusive offering should offer something for everyone and we‘re excited to be able to open the doors to passengers today.‘‘