The former Continental Flagship needs to be refreshed
The summary
When catching a United flight out of Houston, and you do not have access to the Polaris lounge, it probably makes the most sense to visit the United Club lounge that is nearest your departure gate. That’s how I found myself at the United Club in the E concourse, near gate E12.
Entry to the lounge is on the main level of the departure concourse and after reception, guests must ascend the escalator to get to the lounge. A large customer service desk fronted by the blue chairs, which are typical in many domestic United Clubs, greets guests upon arriving on the main lounge floor. As this was July 4, there was a very cool pop up “Summer Berry Shortcake Bar” at the top of the escalator.
When originally constructed for Continental Airlines, the space was much larger. However, much is its footprint was removed to make way for the Polaris Lounge. Familiar patrons will notice the abundance of dark wood – which was a hallmark of Continental Presidents Clubs. This lounge never even received the mid-2010s United refresh (white, beiges, faux marble, clean lines, etc.). Seating throughout the lounge is a combination of typical lounge chairs, round tables, and high-top tables. The lounge sports terrific views of the tarmac.
Aside from the short cake offered on entry, there was nothing great about the food. There were two buffets. The main buffet had a nice salad bar (big fan of watermelon salad), corn salad, a warm chicken dish, some rice and some sweets (cookies and brownies). Closer to the service desk was a small buffet with some cubes of cheese, wraps and other sandwiches. .
For drinks there was a large infused water station, soft drink area, coffee, and an espresso machine. There was also a decent bar – with several no charge items but a charge for premium offerings.
One thing you can count on: plenty of outlets and a fast internet. The washrooms were basic and located near the customer service desk.
All in all – this lounge is in dire need of a refresh and pales in comparison to the United Clubs in Denver and Newark. That said – good news is on the horizon! A United representative in the club said that the IAH Terminal B club Is scheduled to open this fall (October) and will be the largest in the network – with a large kitchen and tons of amenities. United needs that in Houston.
The wrap
…the details: Date: July 4, 2026. Rating: Gets the job done. Access: United Club member
….what I like: The views, the friendly staff, the shortcake pop up
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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