Review: VIP One Lounge at New York JFK Airport (JFK), Terminal 1

maybe the oddest lounge I have ever visited..

A rather small pre-security lounge at JFK’s terminal one has made to order food, a welcoming reception team, an expedited security lane of its own, and is surprisingly quiet – but the lack of available outlets and no in-lounge bathrooms detract from the experience.

The summary

Located on the departures level of terminal one, near the E and F check-in counters, this lounge is a rarity – a lounge that you enter before passing through security. The lounge is accessible to Priority Pass passengers – even those departing from other terminals. From the terminal itself, the entry seems sort of makeshift. However, once you formally enter the lounge and are greeting by very the friendly reception staff, you come upon a very attractive room – easily the nicest part of the lounge. It is from this room that lounge visitors can access expedited security. Unfortunately, I don’t see travelers spending time there.

The main seating area is to the left past reception with a variety of chairs and tables. However, there are no outlets (that I saw) in this area, which diminishes the appeal of sitting there. I parked myself along a hi-top table that fronted the kitchen, where I found a few outlets.

There are two very nice features of the lounge: made to order cooking and the fast track through security. I did not need the latter, but I did peruse the extensive digital menu, which you can scan via QR code from throughout the lounge. The lounge attendant who prepares the food and drinks will bring it directly to you.

There is no real buffet, just some light snacks, soft drinks, tea, and beer. There is a closed off room with a nice looking sofa – I guess that’s for VIPs.

There is no lounge internet network However, the free JFK internet was easy and quick – and not password protected.

This is not a lounge that I would arrive early for. Yes, the staff is nice and the made to order food looked good – but it’s very small, lacks washrooms, and has an unremarkable decor. The pre-security location is not ideal – though the expedited entry does help.

The wrap

…The details. Date – July 18, 2025. Rating: Use in pinch. Access: Priority Pass.

…What I like: The reception staff, the made to order food, the quiet, expedited security lane.

…What I don’t like: Lack of outlets and no in-lounge washrooms.