Delta One Lounge JFK
Years ago and just recently, I shared my preference for extended layovers. The current airport lounge arms race has me lingering even longer. Domestically, a relatively rare supply of higher tier lounge experiences are available, such as the joint AA/BA Chelsea Lounge JFK, and American’s Flagship First Dining DFW. But my recent Delta One Lounge JFK experience put all those others far in the rear view. In my opinion, the Delta One Lounge JFK sets a new standard for domestic airport lounges. With this location, Delta has proven the ability to offer a truly premium experience at the largest scale I’ve ever seen in the States. Today, I’m describing what made this visit so special.
Food and Beverage
I arrived to a subdued Delta One Lounge JFK a bit after 8 am on a Wednesday. My first goal was to get acquainted with the entire footprint, taking a brief stroll around the perimeter. After passing the quiet main bar, I noticed many R2D2-like beverage stations with thoughtful attendants dotting the gargantuan 39k square-foot complex. With mimosa in hand, I approached the market area of the lounge which offered a variety of fare throughout the day. I was a bit disappointed that the Brasserie, the lounge’s full-service restaurant, didn’t open until 11 am, but the market substantially delivered in the meantime.
The market provides delightful options in a refined yet low-key manner. I approached the counter to request a fresh everything bagel with jalapeno cheddar spread, and a worker happily obliged. I quickly realized I should’ve walked the entire market before my order, as guests can order custom items such as omelets, eggs, and bakery items or opt for available proteins. All of the ready-made items are located behind glass. Actually, the only self-serve options I found in the entire club were a few coffee machines and a soda fountain. While some may find this inconvenient, I actually preferred requesting items. Most of the time, the helpful employees offered beverages without me asking. In a world of increasingly-disrespectful behavior – in lounges and otherwise – I applaud Delta for taking more control of the space. And, bigger picture, the market dining experience felt a lot classier than standing in a Centurion Lounge cafeteria buffet line.
Guests can pick from open seating in the market and opt for self-serve beverages or order from one of the available waiters. In my experience, they were quick to assist with drinks and table-clearing.
The Brasserie
Later in my stay, I visited the Brasserie for a full meal. Guests can make reservations for their preferred times, but one isn’t required. Delta continues the “bigger is better” theme in this area, perhaps the largest in-lounge restaurant I’ve ever visited. The space was buzzing by the time I arrived at about 1 pm for lunch, with waitstaff hustling every which way among the busy diners (some with luggage).
I started with a salad – large enough to be an entree. The vinaigrette was on-point. After finishing about half of that, my burger main arrived. The accurately-cooked medium was tasty, particularly the caramelized onions. I found the fries mediocre, slightly improved with a bit of mayo. I finished about half the burger, wanting to leave a bit of room for a taste of dessert. Next I ordered the cheesecake, cleverly shaped as a cheese wedge on a bed of graham cracker dust. I enjoyed a cappuccino with the generously-sized dessert, not even getting through half there, either.
The lounge’s generosity, in portions and everywhere else, was clear throughout. Let’s look at other examples.
Other Amenities
After breakfast, I opted for a shower. The helpful attendant requested I register at an automated kiosk, something which only took a few seconds. She led me to a nearby shower suite and queried if I’d like any bath amenities. A bit off-guard but taking her at face value, I requested whatever was convenient. She returned with a dental kit, shaving kit, and full stick of Degree deodorant, among other items. Finally, the attendant offered clothes-pressing and shoeshine services. I thanked her, but declined.
The shower suites are a step above anything I’ve experienced domestically. The bathroom’s design and decor competes with or exceeds what I’ve experienced in many luxury hotels. I took advantage of the pull-out closet nearby the shower to hang my clothing. Next to the centrally-located vanity is an elevated platform to store baggage. On the other side of the large suite is a dressing bench across from the toilet.
After my strong, hot shower, I put on the plush bathrobe and slippers before shaving. I caught myself doing everything slower, not wanting the experience to end.
Later in the morning, I reserved a spa treatment, choosing the head, neck, and shoulders massage. The ten-minute massage lasted a bit longer than I expected. The lounge offers massage chairs, but I recommend one of the attendant-provided options, if they’re available on your visit.
Service
I’ve never seen the level of attention or care given to a larger group of guests than at the Delta One Lounge JFK. Waitstaff and other lounge workers consistently volunteered their assistance throughout my visit. I noticed this staff consistency with other guests throughout the lounge, as well. But somehow, the service didn’t feel over-the-top annoying, either. The lounge has struck the right balance of proactively assisting without intruding.
Here’s just a sample of where Delta One Lounge JFK service went over and above:
- Employees offered beverages in the variety of relaxation spaces, including the quiet area.
- Helpful waitstaff were located throughout the market.
- Can-do shower attendants ensured an orderly service.
- Knowledgeable Brasserie servers were capable of making meaningful food and beverage recommendations.
- The warm front desk staff was happy to assist with a variety of travel needs.
Conclusion
The vast majority of domestic lounges cheap out or completely ignore areas where Delta One Lounge JFK has chosen to excel. The fact Delta’s able to deliver a premium experience at such a large scale is truly remarkable. I cherished this experience, not exactly knowing when I’ll return. Indeed, this lounge is relatively difficult to access, and perhaps that means it won’t be chewed up any time soon. I expect Delta is attuned here, as the airline (or as the company touts, “air line”) as they periodically remind us what they think of themselves. In this instance, they’ve walked the premium walk just as much as they’ve talked it. I’m thrilled to return sooner rather than later.
Travelers deserve nice things. Hopefully, American and United notice.
As a recovered Delta fan who now avoids the airline except when absolutely necessary I’m glad to see them doing something right. United and American have both stepped up their lounge quality as well so perhaps this will continue that competition.
Delta has forced the hands of AA and UA. In spite of AA’s rhetoric of “premium,” it’s response is begrudging. After seeing the vibe that Delta delivered, AA rolls out refreshes of one, each, standard-issue lounges that are “nice” but uninspiring. Do what is minimally needed. Keep in mind, FF Dining at LAX remains “temporarily” closed (to save expense) even though it has been paid for in one’s ticket price.
Great perspectives, Fred and Christian!
As I said, Delta lost me as a fanatical loyalist several years ago but even so if they offer the best lounges then it makes for a healthier competition overall. Everyone wins.
The old BA Concorde Room at JFK T7 was a smaller version of the one at Heathrow. Very nice. Substantially better than the current joint AA/BA Chelsea Lounge. My sense is that the cost mentality if Doug Parker and Alex Cruz (the respective CEOs) drove Chelsea’s mediocre offering.
Benjy, Delta has really led the way. I expected something special but your report is a pleasant surprise. I was going to experience it last month but plans changed. Thanks for the report.
Never got to experience that Concorde Room, Lee! I’m not surprised to your thoughts on how it compares to the Chelsea. Good luck on a future visit to the Delta One lounge, though! Arrive with an empty stomach, like I did, and let us know what you think! 😉
The only time I’ve spent six hours in a lounge (or wanted to) was to use one of the sleeping rooms in the QR Al Safwa First Class Lounge at DOH. And you ate two days of calories the way I eat. Glad you didn’t cheat yourself.