Craft-Inspired Dining Experience at Logan International Airport
Written by James O’Brien, Project Executive
Written by James O’Brien, Project Executive
As part of the major Terminal E expansion at Boston Logan International Airport, Holt Construction delivered a stunning 2,500 sq. ft. restaurant and bar space for Boston Harbor Distillery. From March to September 2023, Holt’s team transformed a bare shell into a fully realized, brand-driven destination that now welcomes international travelers with a taste of New England.
Situated in Logan’s newest terminal wing, Holt’s work unfolded within a live, high-traffic environment. The team collaborated closely with Massport, the base building team, and neighboring contractors, adapting daily to keep progress steady, maintain safety, and minimize disruption amid ongoing terminal construction and multiple tenant projects.
Founded by a former partner of Sam Adams Brewery, Boston Harbor Distillery brings a strong New England heritage and a distinctive craft identity to Terminal E. The restaurant’s design reflects that story, featuring warm, handcrafted finishes, custom millwork, a full-service bar, and seating areas that combine comfort with classic Boston character. Every detail was thoughtfully created to showcase the distillery’s brand while offering a welcoming environment for travelers from around the world.
One of the most intricate aspects of the project involved the mechanical systems. Because of the terminal’s structural design, all HVAC and plumbing lines had to be routed downward rather than upward, an unusual setup demanding precision, ingenuity, and careful planning. Holt managed this through daily walkthroughs, regular planning meetings, and close coordination with vendors, proactively adjusting the construction plan to stay ahead of potential challenges and keep the project on track.
Holt relied on trusted, prequalified trade partners to bring this vision to life. Many had partnered with Holt before, bringing both expertise and familiarity to the job. Their honesty, hands-on approach, and long-standing experience made them key to keeping the project on track.
Boston Harbor Distillery was built at the same time as Sal’s Pizza, with both tenants sharing back-of-house kitchen services. Coordinating overlapping systems added complexity, requiring constant collaboration across trades. Several other tenant fit-outs were also underway in Terminal E, and Holt’s team remained agile, carefully managing every step to maintain workflow, ensure safety, and deliver exceptional results.
Despite delays in receiving key equipment such as food service systems and electrical panels, Holt’s strategic planning and hands-on coordination ensured the project was finished on time and under budget.
Because the restaurant had to open in step with the terminal’s launch, timing and coordination were critical. Thanks to the experience of the entire team, the project stayed on schedule and opened right alongside the terminal
James O’Brien, Project Executive

The team stayed flexible and communicative throughout, quickly adapting to challenges and keeping the project on track.
Dan Galvin, Clifford & Galvin Contracting
Today, Boston Harbor Distillery stands as one of many successful tenant build-outs Holt has completed at Boston Logan International Airport, showcasing the company’s ability to deliver high-quality work in high-security, high-pressure environments while managing complex logistics and client needs.
Learn more about the people and projects behind the scenes at Boston Logan International Airport and if you are a trade interested in learning more about collaborating with Holt on the next exciting concept, check out our easy to complete prequalification process.
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