I’m just finishing off my review trip to Hong Kong, with a quick side trip from New York to Los Angeles in Delta One business class. While I’ll share my initial thoughts on the flight in a separate post, in this post I want to talk about the Delta One Lounges in both New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX), which I visited on both ends of my flight.
We’ve seen the opening of Delta One Lounges in recent times, which are Delta’s new premium lounges, intended to compete with American Flagship Lounges and United Polaris Lounges. The lounges looked great, so I had high expectations, but I was curious to experience them firsthand.
I can’t even begin to say how delighted I was by both of these facilities. Honestly, they make American Flagship Lounges look and feel like school cafeterias, by comparison. And they even leave United Polaris Lounges in the dust. Hell, I’d argue that the Delta One Lounge JFK is among the world’s best business class lounges… and very high on that list, to boot.
Anyway, enough of that. Below are my initial thoughts, and then soon I’ll have a full trip report.
In this post:
The Delta One Lounge JFK sets the standard in the United States
The Delta One Lounge New York (JFK) was the first in the network to open, and it’s also by far the largest, at nearly 40,000 square feet, with seating for over 500 people. Design-wise, the lounge is gorgeous. It really doesn’t feel like an airport lounge, but really feels more like a high-end hotel, or something.
I also love Delta’s commitment to having outdoor terraces, which are even open year-round, and have direct apron views.
I also love the dining concept. There’s no self-serve food in the entire lounge, but instead there’s the market area, which is essentially an all-day buffet with people in the kitchen who serve you, with endless cold and hot options. Honestly, you’d probably be very happy if this was the extent of the dining, as this alone has more food than most business class lounges.
But then you also have an a la carte restaurant, which really feels more like a “real” restaurant than an airport lounge restaurant.
Here’s the thing — some airport lounges have what’s supposed to be a restaurant style dining experience, but in reality, it’s only good by airport standards. In this case, the food was honestly so good that I would’ve been happy to pay for it at a high-end restaurant in a major city.
Pulling that off in an airport, especially with the number of guests being served, is nothing short of amazing. Every time I’ve dined in a United Polaris Lounge, for example, I’ve thought that the food was quite good for an airport, but not actually full-on restaurant quality.
As an appetizer, I had the tuna crudo with avocado, shaved radish, sesame snow, and black bean sauce. YUM!
For the main course, I had the pan roasted branzino with exotic mushroom, tomato fondu, and herb butter. Again, so good!
Then for dessert, I had the opera cake with coffee crumble and chocolate sauce, and my excellent server brought a side of ice cream, just because she said she likes it that way. Love it!
The lounge has plenty of other amenities, like a wellness area, with everything from rest pods, to massage chairs, to spa treatments.
The Delta One Lounge LAX is small, but packs a mighty punch
The Delta One Lounge Los Angeles (LAX) is “only” around 10,000 square feet, with seating for nearly 200 people. I’ve gotta be honest, after visiting the JFK location, I thought the LAX location would be underwhelming, given its small size. To my surprise, I actually liked the experience just as much, though admittedly they both have their advantages.
Much like the Delta One Lounge JFK, the LAX location is also beautifully designed, though it’s definitely scaled down, since it’s only around one-quarter the size.
Here’s what makes the Delta One Lounge LAX unique, though. While the Delta One Lounge JFK has a dedicated dining area, the entire LAX lounge has table service. So it doesn’t matter where you sit — whether it’s at the bar, or on the terrace, or on one of the couches — there’s a table setting, and a server who constantly looks after you.
Want a drink, or a three-course meal, or sushi? They’ll take care of it for you! I don’t know another widely accessible business class lounge with that level of service at every single seat.
I had an incredible mezcal negroni, which was as good as you’d get at an expensive cocktail bar, down to having a big cube.
While there’s a large menu you could order off of, I was most intrigued by the lounge’s sushi selection, as there’s a legit sushi bar with chefs who freshly prepare all orders.
You don’t expect to be served an unagi hand roll in an airport lounge, and honestly, typically if you’re being offered one, you should probably be skeptical and run the other way. But gosh, Delta really pulled it off, and the selection was very good.
The desserts were also pretty indulgent, with everything from a little bar with sweets, to the popcorn ice cream sundae I had. Yum.
Despite its much smaller size, the lounge also has a wellness area. While there aren’t any “human” treatments, there are seats for resting, and also some of the most intense massage chairs I’ve ever tried.
Delta One Lounges have amazing & passionate staff
I want to touch on one other aspect of the Delta One Lounge experience that really impressed me — the staff. Simply put, every single person working in the lounge really makes you feel welcome, and like they’re happy that you’re there, and want you to have a good time.
Delta has also tailored the experience in such a way that they’ve put thought into every aspect of the passenger experience. When you enter the lounge, you’re given a card with all the amenities available, the staff explain what to expect, and they even offer to store your luggage (at least at JFK).
Whether at JFK or LAX, I couldn’t have been more impressed by the service level, and the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. Where do I even begin?
Often I feel sheepish taking lounge pictures, and like I get the evil eye from staff (even when I do it in empty lounges, to respect the privacy of others). At the JFK location, one of the servers stopped me to say “I’m always so happy when I see people taking pictures, it means they like what we’re offering.”
I overheard another guest tell the server in the restaurant how great the service was, and how it was better than any lounge he had been to. He responded with “when we started working here, Delta explained to us that the number one reason people choose the airline is because of the service, and we want to be part of that, and make sure we go above and beyond so that you have a great time and leave happy.”
I also had amazing service in both restaurants — at JFK I was being served by Alex, and at LAX I was being served by Trey, and the were both rockstars.
Just to give an example, I asked Trey which of the specialty cocktails weren’t too sweet. He was honest and said that he finds them to all be on the sweet side, but he asked me what kind of drinks I like, and insisted on making a special drink for me. I love that level of personalization and passion.
There’s one other consistent theme I heard, which gave me a chuckle. At both lounges, staff members kept asking if people had visited the other lounge (so in JFK they asked if people had visited LAX, and vice versa). As it was explained to me, there’s a bit of a rivalry between the two lounges, as to which is better. I kind of love that, because it certainly motivates people to deliver a great experience.
No matter how nice a lounge looks, if you don’t have great people working there, it can really take away from the experience. In the case of Delta One Lounges, it makes the experience. I don’t know how the airline is finding such good people (especially since most staff don’t work directly for the airline), but keep it up.
Bottom line
The new Delta One Lounge concept is a winner. While Delta may be the last to the game among the “big three” carriers with this concept, it left other carriers in the dust. As an American flyer, I’m not sure how I’m supposed to even go back to a Flagship Lounge, because it’s not even slightly comparable.
Delta has done a commendable job with its lounge concept, from beautiful design, to thoughtful amenities, to restaurant quality food and drinks, to perfect service. Well done, Delta, and I can’t wait for future visits to these lounges! I hope this level of service can be maintained.
If you’ve visited a Delta One Lounge, what was your experience like?
Should you chip in these lounges? I'm unsure of the expectations, or ability to accept.
I’ve been a Delta flyer for the past 13 - 14 years. I’ve said for the longest time the best Delta employees are found in Sky Clubs. Whatever training or recruitment processes they use… it works. The lounge staff are incredible. I got the chance to use the Delta One lounge at LAX last month and had a great experience. It was for work, so I look forward to visiting when I can relax a...
I’ve been a Delta flyer for the past 13 - 14 years. I’ve said for the longest time the best Delta employees are found in Sky Clubs. Whatever training or recruitment processes they use… it works. The lounge staff are incredible. I got the chance to use the Delta One lounge at LAX last month and had a great experience. It was for work, so I look forward to visiting when I can relax a little more.
It’s unfortunate that they don’t have plans to replace the 767s. I actually really like them if I have to fly main cabin or comfort+, but in Delta One they’re kind of pathetic. If they didn’t charge SUCH a premium over United it would be one thing, but on my return from a trip last month I had the choice between DCA>LAX in D1 (on a 757) for $1300 or IAD>LAX in United First (on a 787) for $600. United was the obvious choice. The in-flight service was below average-to-bad, the food was not anywhere near as good as D1, but at the end of the day I got a much better seat that allowed me to get some rest on my way home.
Delta IS replacing the 767s via new A330-900s and A350s. There is no direct replacement for the 767 which is part of the problem.
Delta plans to have 767-300ERs off of transatlantic flights by 2028 and out of the fleet by 2030. Delta was once the largest operator of the 767; now the freight operators have larger fleets but DL is still the largest passenger operator.
obviously 787s can't fly to DCA. DL currently...
Delta IS replacing the 767s via new A330-900s and A350s. There is no direct replacement for the 767 which is part of the problem.
Delta plans to have 767-300ERs off of transatlantic flights by 2028 and out of the fleet by 2030. Delta was once the largest operator of the 767; now the freight operators have larger fleets but DL is still the largest passenger operator.
obviously 787s can't fly to DCA. DL currently only has a narrowbody lie flat product on its 757s but that will change.
DCA is simply the preferred market for the local Washington DC market and fares reflect that.
If DL's product was that bad, they couldn't get the fares they do
I visited Delta One Lounge at LAX this week and it was truly an amazing experience. Arriving and being created at the curbside to private TSA screening was incredible and easy. Being catered to by 2 attentive staff, the massage chair and great food left me with excitement for the next lounge. I look forward to trying Boston’s next month.
Ben, how did you get into the LAX Delta One Lounge, since you terminated in LAX and access is not granted on arrival. I think you said your ticket out of LAX was on Jet Blue.
@ Daniel K -- Delta One Lounge access is allowed on arrival as well. :-)
My wife and I had a great experience at the delta one lounge in nyc. We are dedicated United flyers (and love the Polaris lounges) but Delta is going to give them a run for their money.
Having been to both lounges, the feel is completely different. JFK is considerably busier as there are far more DeltaOne itineraries there than out of LAX, but the massive space absorbs the flow of people. I agree, the JFK restaurant is phenomenal, and the staff at both are an absolute joy. My family loved the seating overlooking the tarmac at LAX, plane watching with a fresh plate of sushi in front of us with the...
Having been to both lounges, the feel is completely different. JFK is considerably busier as there are far more DeltaOne itineraries there than out of LAX, but the massive space absorbs the flow of people. I agree, the JFK restaurant is phenomenal, and the staff at both are an absolute joy. My family loved the seating overlooking the tarmac at LAX, plane watching with a fresh plate of sushi in front of us with the beautiful mountains in the background.
At JFK, arrive early and you can get a quality spa treatment.
Someone mentioned that not all drinks are included. True. I would never expect a free pour of their Louis XIII but I was a little hemmed there was an upcharge for MacCallan 18. The champagne on my visit was a Charles de Cavanoze. Delightful, but over at Chelsea in T8, they'll serve you a glass of Dom if you ask. I guess that's my only gripe.
These are my two favorite lounges in North America. Bring small bills for tips. You'll feel humbled by the level of white glove service you get.
It really punches above it's weight and I'd put the sit-down food up against the better intl First Class lounge sit-down food (La Premiere in CDG, Emirates in DXB, etc). Will be curious to see how the other D1 lounges stack up but for now, it's a real reason to fly D1 and KLM J out of JFK, and I never thought a domestic business class lounge would have that kind of draw.
How does the food and cocktails compare to the Air Canada Signature Lounge in Toronto which I think has a excellent a la carte dining room with top quality food.
Some premium butt-kissing both inside the article and here in the comments from the Delta fanboys.
Not really inside the article?
Ben really seems to like the D1 lounges. Not sure that there’s anything butt kissing about that? Delta was the last to the premium lounge game. Dead last. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that delta had to compensate for a measly onboard product and late to the game lounge by setting a new standard for US business class lounges and it seems they did per Ben’s review.
I don’t...
Not really inside the article?
Ben really seems to like the D1 lounges. Not sure that there’s anything butt kissing about that? Delta was the last to the premium lounge game. Dead last. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that delta had to compensate for a measly onboard product and late to the game lounge by setting a new standard for US business class lounges and it seems they did per Ben’s review.
I don’t have much desire to fly delta internationally on their 767s or numerous wide bodies with no WiFi either, at all, or with a subpar provider (unique to delta). Frankly, even their new wide bodies are just a new generation of the old coffin seat for those that like them.
But that doesn’t make the d1 lounge bad?
Delta’s strategy has always been appear premium where you can to get the perception then be the worse at everything else whether their mileage program, wide body fleet, partners, or that they still don’t have WiFi on every plane or all aisle access other entire wide body fleet
Ben skewers my personal Favorites more than enough. I may not always agree but there’s nothing wrong with a review that impressed a reviewer that has SEEN a lot of lounges.
of course you don't fly Delta.
And yet you show up endlessly to tell us what is wrong with Delta even though "your company" consistently fails to deliver anywhere close to what DL delivers either in finances or customer service metrics.
and to summarize once again,
AA and UA have precisely ZERO aircraft in service with suites with doors. Delta has scores.
AA and UA have precisely ZERO aircraft in service with high speed...
of course you don't fly Delta.
And yet you show up endlessly to tell us what is wrong with Delta even though "your company" consistently fails to deliver anywhere close to what DL delivers either in finances or customer service metrics.
and to summarize once again,
AA and UA have precisely ZERO aircraft in service with suites with doors. Delta has scores.
AA and UA have precisely ZERO aircraft in service with high speed free WiFi. Delta has over 650 and growing by the week.
You, child, are a jealous little boy that can't stand to admit that someone else besides your 'home team' is winning.
@Tim Dunn - what the hell is wrong with you?
Timbits:
Don't care about doors in premium cabins. They're annoying to me. The wi-fi is sufficiently fast for me and it's also free for me on both UA and AA, being a T-mo customer of twenty years' standing. Have always had repulsive service from FAs on DL, and the service on UA and AA is much better. And only idiots and hub captives fly DL. That's my view. And my view of you is that you're a suck-up desperate to be rehired by the organization that fired you.
Remind me what "my company" is again? That's funny. You don't actually know.
You just throw insults like a petulant child because you hate people knowing about your own past since it's HIGHLY relevant to the ridiculous nonsense you put out there today.
Delta didn't think you provided value to Delta. I don't think you provide value to a comment section.
And no. I don't have much desire to fly delta. Many...
Remind me what "my company" is again? That's funny. You don't actually know.
You just throw insults like a petulant child because you hate people knowing about your own past since it's HIGHLY relevant to the ridiculous nonsense you put out there today.
Delta didn't think you provided value to Delta. I don't think you provide value to a comment section.
And no. I don't have much desire to fly delta. Many people are put off by by your incessant and idiotic rants about Delta that are often quite representative of many DL HQ people and the irrational obsession they have with a company.
But. I do fly Delta just not often since their network is pretty useless to me and many others. But I do and I've had good flights in first and bad flights. I know enough about statistical analysis to know that my data points on delta aren't representative of a true sampling but I truly have found little different about DL vs their competitors. But I do know, like others, I HATE Atlanta airport and like most Americans, have very little reason to visit DTW or MSP though I'm sure they're nice cities.
All the best. The mere appearance of my name and you absolutely lose your mind and fall into a deep abyss of insults and weirdly irrational behavior.
You shouldn't let me live in your head so easily. Your past is your past. If you insist on making your online persona a real-life parody of reality, then you can expect those that know about your background to remind others of how many websites have BANNED you to say nothing of Delta firing you.
All the best, Cupcake.
Our experience at Delta One LAX lounge was awesome! It surpassed any airport lounge experience we have ever had, and we've been in lounges all over the world: Europe, Asia, etc.
I had that same popcorn caramel sundae pictured in this article, and the bloody mary I had was the best ever! My husband had the hand-rolled sushi and couldn't get enough of it. The service was so good it was like we couldn't...
Our experience at Delta One LAX lounge was awesome! It surpassed any airport lounge experience we have ever had, and we've been in lounges all over the world: Europe, Asia, etc.
I had that same popcorn caramel sundae pictured in this article, and the bloody mary I had was the best ever! My husband had the hand-rolled sushi and couldn't get enough of it. The service was so good it was like we couldn't get up to do anything ourselves; there was always someone waiting on us. We only wished we had more time to spend in there before our next flight. Truly amazing!
The staff were a huge stand out for me at JFK too. Genuine smiles and warm, attentive service. It really was just a very pleasant experience. It unfortunately made the decline in the ambience of the Virgin Clubhouse more apparent - they seemed rude and dismissive in comparison (or at the very least avoidant). Well done to Delta, and hoping to check out the Boston one in a couple of weeks.
How is it you love this but not cruises. This is giving Royal Caribbean / Norwegian Cruise Lines on land.
Sounds great; well done Delta!
I was in the lounge just before Christmas for a flight to CDG. Agree with you on the look, feel, food, and service.
The piece that was unbearable was the noise. I know I was there at a peak hour, but there is nothing in that entire space that absorbs noise. It was shockingly loud in there. I left to sit at the gate after about 20 minutes.
Agreed. The vibe is like Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria. More upscale, exclusive bar than it is a place to relax. But when I needed to get work done, they have plenty of quiet booths in the back. Also, the seating in the spa area is "whisper only" and no kids are allowed back there. Something to keep in mind.
Ben, I see no mention of what a lot of people have said here which is that you get charged for premium drinks in D1 lounges?
If true, that is a massive fail, which removes a lot of the premium feeling from the lounge, surely. That certainly doesn't happen in Flagship lounges or at the BA/AA Soho and Chelsea lounges in JFK?
Right. I want to know how much that Negroni cost. Seems like an editorial omission not to mention if premium alcohol is included.
@ Robert Fahr -- It cost me nothing.
@ Kerry -- To be clear, there's a respectable selection of complimentary alcohol, and then you can pay extra for higher end alcohol than you'd usually find in lounges. I had several drinks between the two lounges, and didn't pay a dime for any beverage, and found the selection to be more than sufficient.
If you can't get a pint of Louis XIII cognac gratis, then surely it's not a Premium lounge?
ah, but did they have Grand Marnier Cuvée du Centenaire 100th Anniversary Edition Liqueur Cognac gratis?
went to the LA one last week on my way to sydney and i thought it was fantastic.
Just had the opportunity to visit the LAX lounge last week connecting from domestic to LATAM flight to Lima in J.
Completely agree that the lounge is superlative.
I am rethinking summer Europe trip flights so that I can stop in LAX and/or JFK for a few hours to enjoy the lounge…it was that good.
LAX lounge is an amazing experience that I only experienced before in Singapore or Abu Dhabi. A very private check in experience at ground level , with a dedicated TSA agent and security check that gets you through in less than a minute. I have been there 3 times since they opened in October and service , food and drinks compare more to a very nice restaurant than to an airline lounge. I entered the lounge by flying on KLM business and Air France Business flights.
I agree in all aspects of your post. I visited the D1 lounge at LAX a little after 6AM. It was my 1st time in the new D1 lounge format. Previously it was only the private TSA leading to the Sky Club via a separate entrance. I can only describe the new format as above and beyond. I would put to guest ratio as 5 staff for each customer. My cappuccino had the DeltaOne imprinted...
I agree in all aspects of your post. I visited the D1 lounge at LAX a little after 6AM. It was my 1st time in the new D1 lounge format. Previously it was only the private TSA leading to the Sky Club via a separate entrance. I can only describe the new format as above and beyond. I would put to guest ratio as 5 staff for each customer. My cappuccino had the DeltaOne imprinted in the foam. I ordered
Freshly scrambled eggs and grabbed a croissant while I waited. The host asked if I wanted it warmed because that’s the way she liked them and I “obliged”. It was truly like high end restaurant that deserved 10 stars and recommend everyone try it at least once in a lifetime. I can’t wait to be back in LA for another round. I’m not a fan of getting to the airport early for a flight but strongly encourage planning the trip to spend
Extra time in the D1 lounge before your flight.
I had a similarly great experience at the Delta One lounge in Boston. Top-notch service, beautiful atmosphere, very good food.
Glad you enjoyed it, Ben. The LAX one is by far the best lounge experience I’ve had in the United States. Stunning.
I have to agree. I was really impressed with the Delta One Lounge at JFK, indeed better than the Polaris Lounge at Newark. It reminded me of a First Class Lounge for Cathay in HK. Really nice meal in the restaurant. It definitely sways me to book Delta One for international trips (as I have abandoned air brand loyalty with the devaluation of miles).
"It definitely sways me to book Delta One for international trips (as I have abandoned air brand loyalty with the devaluation of miles)."
Keep in mind you'll likely spend most of our time on Delta out of JFK on a tired 763 ;)
more falsehoods from the competition's water carriers that are DEATHLY afraid of what DL can do to the premium travel market.
The 763 is a MINORITY of DL's widebody flights from JFK even considering that half of the flights are for domestic flights.
Let's remember that UA doesn't even grant domestic premium business class passengers access to the Polaris lounge and AA's 321Ts are falling apart, a reality that Gary over VFTW regularly reports on...
more falsehoods from the competition's water carriers that are DEATHLY afraid of what DL can do to the premium travel market.
The 763 is a MINORITY of DL's widebody flights from JFK even considering that half of the flights are for domestic flights.
Let's remember that UA doesn't even grant domestic premium business class passengers access to the Polaris lounge and AA's 321Ts are falling apart, a reality that Gary over VFTW regularly reports on .
and B6 won't spend the money on another flight attendant so locks their Mint suite doors open.
your team lost, sweetheart. Suck it up and head home.
lol
Why oh why oh why doesn’t Delta reimagine their 767s the way UA did with their “premium heav” version of the aircradt? Those planes are old and badly need an upgrade.
first, why is the discussion not also about UA's 757s that fly thousands of flights per year across the Atlantic? You do realize that UA's 757s don't even have direct aisle access for every seat in business class - something all DL 767s have?
second, UA's 767s aren't any newer than DL's and they also aren't any more fuel efficient.
and third, DL is retiring 767s with new, larger, more fuel efficient aircraft while UA...
first, why is the discussion not also about UA's 757s that fly thousands of flights per year across the Atlantic? You do realize that UA's 757s don't even have direct aisle access for every seat in business class - something all DL 767s have?
second, UA's 767s aren't any newer than DL's and they also aren't any more fuel efficient.
and third, DL is retiring 767s with new, larger, more fuel efficient aircraft while UA clings to not just its 767 fleet but scores of 777s that are old and fuel INefficient.
and finally, how about telling us the maintenance dispatch reliability for UA's 767 fleet? I can tell you, that just like AA's 767 fleet, UA's dispatch reliability is lower than DL's.
None of which changes that Delta One lounges blow Polaris out of the water.
Ben, who is not exactly a DL marketing rep, said what I have said would be the case.
and. you. can't. stand. it.
Ben, did you experience the dedicated security line it offers?
@ pstm91 -- I did at JFK, and will of course cover that in the full review posts. It's very impressive how they've created such a seamless experience.
Exactly what I was hoping you'd say. Totally agree, it's such a perk there.
Looks amazing - very happy to see no TVs in the bar area (a weird American affliction even in high-end hotels). Is there any champagne on offer?
@ OT -- Hah, agree on the TVs! The complimentary champagne is Charles De Cazanove.
Its perfection when you arrive at 5am and are the only guest
On my jfk-mxp last week (my 10th or so visit to the JFK lounge) 20 minutes to be seated and only a glass of mineral and one of wine appeared after 1 hour so had to leave to board as the gate was obviously in Siberia. Despite solicitation food just never materialized.
Otherwise staff eager to help and acceptably trained on...
Its perfection when you arrive at 5am and are the only guest
On my jfk-mxp last week (my 10th or so visit to the JFK lounge) 20 minutes to be seated and only a glass of mineral and one of wine appeared after 1 hour so had to leave to board as the gate was obviously in Siberia. Despite solicitation food just never materialized.
Otherwise staff eager to help and acceptably trained on the product and good will on behalf of the airline to provide a better departure and connect experience
Found the LAX lounge better on my several previous visits perhaps because of less volume
Sounds like my visit to the D1 lounge last summer. Full of people, only empty seats were in the restaurant, which they weren't seating because of service issues. Finally got seated and had to wait an hour for service. Food was mediocre; then again, if I'm dining out, I'm usually going somewhere nice, so maybe I'm just a snob. Free alcohol was better than what you'd get for free in a SkyClub, but still pretty...
Sounds like my visit to the D1 lounge last summer. Full of people, only empty seats were in the restaurant, which they weren't seating because of service issues. Finally got seated and had to wait an hour for service. Food was mediocre; then again, if I'm dining out, I'm usually going somewhere nice, so maybe I'm just a snob. Free alcohol was better than what you'd get for free in a SkyClub, but still pretty cheap. Eventually boarded a clapped-out 763 for my flight, and two days later received a case of COVID-19 as a souvenir.
Couldn’t agree more myself. I loved the experience at the JFK Delta One lounge. I was impressed with the service level and really enjoyed the sit down restaurant experience. Although I did feel that it could get rather crowded and a little loud at the Market area - I was there at peak dinner time.
So the last two lounges I was in were the al safwa first class in Doha and the delta one lax. Granted for the al safwa I was only there for breakfast and did not get to use the sleeping rooms but I thought the food and the the service at the delta one were better. I do love sushi, though
Great Lounges
But it be a lot better to have a premium service and catering on board during flights 6 - 7 or more hours that having the most luxurious lounges that I can only enjoy for 1 or 2 hours why they don’t put the same effort to get a premium on board service rather that premium lounges
Visited the JFK lounge. Amazing space with great staff. Atmosphere really is like a high end hotel BUT the sad reality is the passengers (including me) were all casually dressed in athleisure wear and carryon luggages everywhere. That was the reality check we were still at an airport :(
Sounds great, but to be fair, full menu waiter service at every seat in the lounge has been the standard at the Virgin Clubhouse in LHR for a very long time.
I tried the D1 lounge at JFK in October 2024 and I was blown away by the experience. I had arrived on a red-eye and I was given access soon after for an evening LATAM J flight. The 12hrs spent there flew by. The cocktails were great, the food was great, and the staff were great as well. Since i was there for a long time, I saw how it went from completely empty to...
I tried the D1 lounge at JFK in October 2024 and I was blown away by the experience. I had arrived on a red-eye and I was given access soon after for an evening LATAM J flight. The 12hrs spent there flew by. The cocktails were great, the food was great, and the staff were great as well. Since i was there for a long time, I saw how it went from completely empty to packed to the gills. Even when packed, the staff did a great job with the service.
I really hope DL does not cost-cut and degrade the quality of the lounge with time. They really have a great thing going.
It looks like you were there during non peak area so the experience was good. I went when it was packed and my experience was quiet underwhelming. No chance to get into the restaurant at all.
@ Cxx -- Yeah, so I wasn't at the JFK lounge during the absolute peak period, though I was at the LAX lounge during one of the busiest periods.
You're no doubt correct that being at a lounge during the busiest period hugely detracts from the experience. But in all honesty, I can't think of a single hub business class lounge that doesn't get painfully crowded during peak periods. It definitely contributes to a less nice experience, though.
Delta is objectively pretty good at the lounge game. SkyClubs have always been a tier above Admirals and United Clubs. The JFK and LAX lounges are quite nice, the seamless priority security lane integration into the lounges with D1 checkin makes it top notch.
There are still major concerns to be addressed though. I don't think the experience at LAX/JFK is the same as the very small BOS lounge, which also has restricted JV access...
Delta is objectively pretty good at the lounge game. SkyClubs have always been a tier above Admirals and United Clubs. The JFK and LAX lounges are quite nice, the seamless priority security lane integration into the lounges with D1 checkin makes it top notch.
There are still major concerns to be addressed though. I don't think the experience at LAX/JFK is the same as the very small BOS lounge, which also has restricted JV access from AF/KLM and short opening windows at 2pm (meaning they really only serve departures after 3:30/4pm). So the problem this creates is that I'm not sure there's a consistent experience across hub to hub, which imo is Delta's biggest problem (just like we see with their aircraft).
The JFK D1 lounge is hands-down the best lounge in the USA, bar none.
Chelsea lounge beats it sorry, business class yes. Where else in the world can you sip on Cristal and Krug in an airport free of charge. It’s also nice since you never see more than 50 ish people in the lounge, hence the premium feel.
You're comparing a First Class lounge to a Business class lounge. It's like saying the Polaris lounges are better than UA clubs. It's a completely unreasonable comparison.
And because I'm not an alcoholic like some of y'all be acting in lounges, D1 lounge has objectively better food quality than Chelsea.
"hands-down the best lounge in the USA, bar none"
Yolo, check your own criteria before berating others for using your own words as a criteria for any lounge "Bar none".
The D1 lounge is clearly nice, but is it the nicest in the US? no. Not at JFK or at LAX, by any stretch. OneWorld seems like the obvious candidate here whether the T8 lounges or the QF First lounge at LAX
well... not your words, but the words used in the initial reply that Apple replied to.
"well... not your words"
You would do well to "check your own criteria before berating others" as you say yourself.
I never made that claim it was the best. I'm just saying it's silly to even compare the two in the first place. So hilarious, all of you.
You only live once, YOLO
Reading helps
The OP said it was the best lounge in the US bar none which is clearly not correct.
Yoloswag420, as Julie kindly mentioned, OP said bar none. Correct I am comparing a business lounge to a first lounge, but considering AA F can be cheaper than D1, IMO it’s a fair comparison.
Haven been to all three D1 Lounges now, they are all amazing, but I actually enjoyed the food at the BOS location the most. So Ben, you’ll need to plan a trip there and compare!
@ DWT -- Need to add that to my list ASAP! Hmmm, with the terminal setup, is it easy to visit the Delta One Lounge BOS if flying BOS-LAX, or much easier for international flights?
@ben - While you mentioned enjoying both lounges equally despite their different approaches to service and significant size difference, if you had to choose just one to name as Delta's flagship One Lounge, which would you select and why? Would the JFK location's status as "among the world's best business class lounges" give it the edge, or does LAX's more intimate, fully-serviced approach make it the stronger overall product?
@ Question for Ben -- Don't make me choose!!! :p You highlighted the pros of each perfectly there. I really enjoyed both experiences, and they were so different that I'd have a hard time choosing. I guess maybe I'd have to give the JFK location the edge, just due to its sheer size, the number of different seating options, etc.? But honestly, I was just as happy at the LAX location.
I’ll be the contrarian voice here: I visited the LAX lounge last Wednesday morning and have never been more disappointed by an experience compared to the reviews I’d read. The first time I sat down, I wasn’t acknowledged after about 10 minutes, so I moved to another table. At that table, service was slow, extremely non-proactive, and my food order never came out. After 25 minutes I flagged someone down to ask about it, and...
I’ll be the contrarian voice here: I visited the LAX lounge last Wednesday morning and have never been more disappointed by an experience compared to the reviews I’d read. The first time I sat down, I wasn’t acknowledged after about 10 minutes, so I moved to another table. At that table, service was slow, extremely non-proactive, and my food order never came out. After 25 minutes I flagged someone down to ask about it, and a manager (rather than my server) came by to say the “system went down” and my order was lost. In the interim I had to go to the bar to order a drink because my server never came by to refill my initial drink.
And they only begin to serve sushi at 10am, when it’s too late (barely) for people taking the Tokyo flight to try it — unfortunate timing.
@ Kevin M -- Wow, I'm shocked to hear that. Thanks for sharing the data point. I wouldn't have expected that, because I found the service at LAX to be extremely attentive. I hope that was a one-off.
Funny, I’ve taken JetBlue on a recent transcon (travel policy) so I haven’t even tried these yet! Will try soon. But I think Delta discovered at some point over the past 10 years that the halo effect of good service / perceived premium status (through onboard service and lounges) moves the needle in terms of people flying your airline and spending on your cards. This has led them to go all in on these lounges,...
Funny, I’ve taken JetBlue on a recent transcon (travel policy) so I haven’t even tried these yet! Will try soon. But I think Delta discovered at some point over the past 10 years that the halo effect of good service / perceived premium status (through onboard service and lounges) moves the needle in terms of people flying your airline and spending on your cards. This has led them to go all in on these lounges, and it will pay further dividends in the future. If you visit these lounges, and have any reason to fly D1 on a corporate trip, you are going to push to fly Delta repeatedly in the future.
When you look at these lounges, combined with all of the new regular SkyClubs, plus access to Centurion Lounges via Amex Delta Reserve, Delta offers the best lounge experience of all the US carriers by a mile, and the gap has widened (even as AA has attempted things like improved food). It will take UA and AA a very long cycle of spending to catch up (if they want to). UA doesn’t even let transcon passengers into their premium lounges, something I think will have to change at some point.
I think this is basically right. Citi and AA have a lot of work to do as Citi takes over the full co-brand deal, while United /Chase has to at least consider offering limited Polaris access for transcons maybe if you both buy a J ticket and also have the club card or CSR.
OMG - is that avacodo toast that I see in one of those pics?? Fancy!!
Indeed Delta sets the standard. Ben, your thoughts relative the AA/BA Chelsea Lounge at JFK? Thanks.
@ Fred -- The Chelsea Lounge obviously has an incredible alcohol selection. Furthermore, during peak periods, the Chelsea Lounge isn't going to get as crowded as the Delta One Lounge. But aside from that, I found the service, food, and amenities, at the Delta One Lounge, to be superior.
Thank You for this great insights, Ben!
Looks like DL learned from QR (dine at the table / any table), having great staff and food, a SPA and nice welcoming design!
Really this gives me a reason to fly DL - as a Munich based LH (must...) flyer I just hope that Lufthansa reads your blog!
Allegris, good night!
What a disgrace!
so very glad to hear that you, Ben, believe that DL is delivering. I have always believed that they genuinely recognize that they can compete with the best airlines in the world and the Delta One lounges do that.
I also suspect that AA and UA execs have visited both DL One lounges and know they have their work cut out for them.
Gary says that AA has hired a whole team of people committed...
so very glad to hear that you, Ben, believe that DL is delivering. I have always believed that they genuinely recognize that they can compete with the best airlines in the world and the Delta One lounges do that.
I also suspect that AA and UA execs have visited both DL One lounges and know they have their work cut out for them.
Gary says that AA has hired a whole team of people committed to improving AA's experience. Lofty ideal which might or might not work but I am glad they recognize that their strategy hasn't worked and they have to up their game.
These D1 lounges didn't happen overnight and are part of an overall strategy to push DL's service levels higher than any US carrier has ever had - and increase DL's profits in the process.
Lots of people will take notice.
We will see this same story repeated multiple times as even more D1 lounges open
There you go Tim, your dedication in blowing the DL trumpet has been vindicated, not only by SkyTrax but by Ben too. Eat your hearts out AA and UA fanboys.
I wonder how many trucks will be necessary in order to collect all the tissue paper in TD’s trash bin today
Ben is pretty objective and calls spades as spades.
While he sometimes get fixated on things, he calls things as they are.
The real issue is that DL has really blown AA and UA out of the water - and it is no surprise that the AA and UA fan kids will go nuts over Ben's assessment.
There goes another 5 pounds of paper tissue.
"Ben is pretty objective and calls spades as spades."
I could point to about 100 of your comments on this website alone with you yelling into the wind saying he isn't.
But your stupid delta obsession is no surprise but it's nice to see you valuing Ben, for once, rather than launching your usual nonsensical attacks on his objectivity with EVERY OTHER THING RELATED TO DELTA or United.
when Ben finds the 737-800s that aren't modded when anyone that is remotely interested in aviation knows that aircraft is being modded by DL, then it is not objective.
but let's face it that Ben does call things as they are including about service.
Ben made an effort to visit a couple of Delta One lounges and it is no surprise that you and a few others that can't stand to read Ben's comparison of DL 1 lounges to AA and UA's lounges are squealing incessantly.
You bully Ben when he doesn’t suck it up to DL and then you say nice things about him when he does. No wonder why you have been banned from every aviation related website out there.
I bully Ben and you are supposed to be the resident saint?
You desperately want to silence every voice that does not line up with your jilted and narrow view of the world.
Ben is not a pushover and he found the D1 lounges to be well above AA and UA's lounges which have existed for years.
DL has proven for years that it knows the competition, knows how to do far better than...
I bully Ben and you are supposed to be the resident saint?
You desperately want to silence every voice that does not line up with your jilted and narrow view of the world.
Ben is not a pushover and he found the D1 lounges to be well above AA and UA's lounges which have existed for years.
DL has proven for years that it knows the competition, knows how to do far better than the competition, and gets so much more revenue because of it.
The new Delta One lounges are just another means by which DL will continue to benefit from the weakness of other carriers as well as grow revenues by delivering on expectations that no US airline has ever been able to deliver.
Now, now children, there is absolutely no need for anyone to throw their toys out of your prams (strollers to the Colonists). This is Ben’s blog and Ben’s views should be accepted by all for what they really are …. a snapshot into the subject at the point in time when he was present.
Such fun to be had by reading your banter.
Egyptair's lounges at CAI blows this out of the water obviously!!
Jokes aside, it does indeed look very good, no matter how painful it is to say that about a Skyteam airline.
It’s unacceptable that Delta charges for wine in the Delta One lounges. For $7,500, you should get free wine at the $25-$50 retail price point.
That is actually appalling. I hate how things inside US lounges cost money for being "more premium". Is the situation the same for the polaris and flagship lounges?
As far as flagship lounges go, there is no cost for any food or booze. If they have it (and they have a pretty good selection), it's free.
I didn't see that in this review. If true, that would very much take some of the luster off.
Delta does charge for very premium drinks in the D1 lounge. At the end of the day, Delta customers are used to paying for premium alcohol in lounges, so it’s not a huge leap for most flyers. If charging for drinks allows them to offer premium drinks at all, and also allows them to invest in high quality food and service, it’s a good trade off. If you don’t want to pay for drinks, you don’t have to.
Some of the "very premium" drinks that Delta charges for in the Delta One lounge are free in other airline lounges.
At the Delta One lounge in JFK, I wasn't charged for some very good wine.
Got to visit the JFK one before flying LATAM to Lima & the LAX one before VS to London, the distinctive LAX drinks were incredible and among the best of any lounge I’ve ever been to. Food was incredible at JFK & less so at LAX except the sushi which was quite good but not mind blowing imo