Lounge Review: Swiss Senator Lounge, Concourse E – Zurich (ZRH)

…Swiss luxury defined…..

When: October 2, 2023

Rating– 9.5/10 – Supreme

Access – Star Alliance Gold

One of the best lounges anywhere for Star Alliance Gold passengers, even flying economy, is the Senator Lounge in the E Concourse at Zurich airport. Stunning tarmac views with outdoor viewing decks, an incredible whiskey bar (maybe the nicest bar I have seen in an airport), and the classy Swiss design make this lounge a standout and gives reason to arrive at the airport early

.The lounge shares an entry with the excellent Business Lounge and with your boarding pass you are directed to one lounge or another. It does seem odd that business class passengers without gold status are directed to the less exclusive lounge while Star Alliance Gold passengers in economy benefit from the more upscale lounge. Of course, many business class passengers probably also have gold status.

Immediately to the left is the whiskey bar, which features a HUGE selection of whiskeys from all over the world. A bartender can serve you a flight if you like. Not only is the selection remarkable, but the bar has a unique and gorgeous design.

To the right you enter the main part of the lounge which includes an extensive buffet, an open-manned cooking station – perfect for omelets, self-serve drink stations, loungers, private work cubicles, which are important given that Zurich is a global business hub. Outlets abound for working or just for charging devices.

The deck provides open air views of the tarmac. Given how many airlines fly into Zurich, it might be the best airport for plane-spotting. Lastly, functional shower suites are available by the lounge check in desks and should be reserved. These are shared with the business class lounge.

I rate this lounge 9.5/10. Best features: The whiskey bar, the views, made to order cooking station, and the décor.  Flaws: The lounge seemed understaffed in the morning.