There is simply no lounge in the US that remotely resembles the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at JFK. Fortunately, this is case where style matches the substance.
Note that when I was there in midday, when it operates chiefly as a priority pass lounge, the food options are more limited. However, at most hours there is a la carte dining. The lounge has a stylish bar, nice views and design that cannot be beat.
The lounge is on the upper level above the A gates at Terminal 4 at JFK. Terminal 4 hosts Delta’s JFK hub and several non – US carriers and has a huge selection of airline and independent/credit card lounges. The entrance of the Virgin Clubhouse is across from the Emirates lounge and the Air India lounge, the latter of which accepts Priority Pass members too – but I DO NOT recommend it.
Once you enter, you are immediately overcome by the décor, which evokes a nightclub: A cool bar, funky seating, a pool table, etc. Food and drinks can be ordered via QR code from your table, although during non-peak hours the food options were limited and there was a small buffet. The bar is standout, however. If you do eat, there are very comfortable restaurant style seats – which are also ideal if you need to get work done. However, it seems that this lounge does not cater that much to workers/business travelers. It’s about fun.
There are tons of interesting seating options: My favorite were the seats with ottomans where you can stretch out and have a great look at the tarmac – and an airport like JFK is great for plane-spotting. There are several shower suites which, along with the washrooms are at the back of the lounge.
I rate this lounge 9/10. Best features: The décor. Flaws: The limits on food options when the lounge is only open for priority pass travelers.
Avid traveler/lounge aficionado, who looks to maximize the fun while traveling. The journey can be as fun as the destination!
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KEY LINKS:
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A slightly off-center look at travel, points, miles, ways to save, funny stories & more, from a husband & wife team where he collects miles & points & she enjoys the fruits of his hobby.
Matthew is an avid traveler, flying more than 200,000 miles per year. Live and Let's Fly shares the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs and promotions, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.
“My Soul is in the Sky”. Aviation and Travel is my life. I simply love flying and love sharing that experience from riding cargo hold in remote Siberia to flying Ultra luxury Private Jet, everything in between with you!
Travel Update is a collective blog of expert frequent flyers who write about the topics, experiences, advice and adventures of travel from around the US, Europe and the world. #flymore
