HMSHost

HMSHost is a global food and beverage service company specializing in operating restaurants, cafés, quick-service counters, and bars in airports, train stations, and highway travel plazas. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, the company partners with well-known national and international brands (such as Starbucks, Wendy’s, Chili’s, and local chef-driven concepts) as well as its own proprietary brands. When you buy food or drinks while traveling—especially at major U.S. and international airports—there’s a good chance the location is operated by HMSHost, even if the storefront carries another brand’s name.

A charge from HMSHost typically appears on your bank or credit card statement after you purchase food or beverages at an airport or travel plaza location they operate. The descriptor may include the specific brand name plus “HMSHost,” an airport code (e.g., “ATL,” “LAX,” “ORD”), or wording like “Airport” or “Travel Plaza.” Most charges are one-time transactions for in-person purchases, but you may also see separate tips added after the initial authorization, pending or temporary authorizations for card verification, or multiple small charges if you made several purchases the same day at different HMSHost-run outlets.

If you don’t recognize an HMSHost charge, start by reviewing your recent travel dates, boarding passes, and receipts from airports or highway plazas, and match the transaction date and location. Check your email or airline app for meal receipts if you used mobile or contactless payment. To resolve questions, first contact the specific restaurant (using the airport’s website or your receipt) or submit a request via the contact form at hmshost.com with the date, amount, and last four digits of your card. For disputed or potentially fraudulent charges, notify your card issuer promptly so they can investigate and, if needed, issue a chargeback while you seek clarification from HMSHost or the location operator.