The American Express Centurion Lounge at SFO
The American Express Centurion Lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a haven for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and culinary delights before their flights. Located in Terminal 3, the lounge is accessible to those departing from other terminals via airside links.
Renovation and Expansion
In 2022, the Centurion Lounge at SFO underwent a significant renovation and expansion, doubling its size to 16,000 square feet. The expansion has resulted in a more spacious and luxurious experience for guests.
Food and Beverage
The lounge offers a wide variety of food and beverage options to satisfy every palate. The menu, designed by Executive Chef Ravi Kapur, features a fusion of flavors inspired by his Indian and Chinese heritage.
Key Facts
- Location: The American Express Centurion Lounge at SFO is located in Terminal 3.
- Access: You don’t need to be flying from the ‘F’ gates or Terminal 3 to access the lounge.
- Renovation and Expansion: The Centurion Lounge at SFO underwent a renovation and expansion in 2022. It reopened on the last day of 2022 and is now nearly double its former size, covering 16,000 square feet.
- Food and Beverage: The lounge offers a variety of food and beverage options. The menu is designed by Executive Chef Ravi Kapur, featuring a fusion of flavors inspired by his lineage.
- Buffets: The lounge has two buffets, one serving hearty and creative food, and the other offering bar bites and protein options for vegans and carnivores.
- Bars: There are two bars in the lounge, one featuring specialty wine flights and the other offering seasonal wines from across California.
- Design and Amenities: The lounge features custom floor-to-ceiling wallcoverings by abstract artist Tracie Cheng. There are plenty of seating options, workspaces with power outlets, expanded bathrooms, and even exclusive seating areas for Centurion members.
- Lounge Access: Access to the Centurion Lounge at SFO is available to holders of The Platinum Card from American Express and a few other American Express cards, as well as Centurion members. There are specific rules and time limits for entry, and the guest policy has certain requirements.
Two buffets cater to different tastes. One serves hearty and creative dishes, while the other offers bar bites and protein options for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Two bars provide a selection of specialty wine flights, seasonal wines from California, and other beverages.
Design and Amenities
The lounge’s interior design incorporates custom floor-to-ceiling wallcoverings by abstract artist Tracie Cheng. The lounge offers ample seating options, including couches, plush swivel chairs, and booths.
Workspaces with power outlets are available for those who need to stay connected. The lounge also features expanded bathrooms and exclusive seating areas for Centurion members.
Lounge Access
Access to the Centurion Lounge at SFO is available to holders of The Platinum Card from American Express, as well as a few other American Express cards and Centurion members.
There are specific rules and time limits for entry. Guests must have a same-day boarding pass and present it at the reception desk. Entry is permitted within three hours of the stated departure time on the boarding pass.
The guest policy allows cardholders to bring two guests for free if they spend $75,000 in eligible purchases on their card each calendar year. Otherwise, guest fees apply.
Conclusion
The American Express Centurion Lounge at SFO is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient pre-flight experience. The lounge’s spacious design, diverse food and beverage options, and exclusive amenities make it a worthwhile destination for those eligible for entry.
Sources
- Point Hacks: American Express Centurion Lounge, San Francisco
- NerdWallet: AmEx Centurion Lounge at SFO: A NerdWallet Review
- SanSpotter: The Amex Centurion Lounge at SFO isn’t what you think it is
FAQs
What is an Amex Lounge?
An Amex Lounge is a premium airport lounge exclusively available to American Express cardholders. These lounges provide a comfortable and upscale environment for travelers to relax, work, enjoy complimentary amenities, and access various services while waiting for their flights.
Is there an Amex Lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO)?
Yes, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) does have an Amex Lounge. American Express operates a lounge in Terminal 3 of SFO, specifically in the International Departures area.
What amenities are offered at the Amex Lounge in SFO?
The Amex Lounge at SFO offers a range of amenities and services, including comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations for electronic devices, newspapers and magazines, and private workspaces. The lounge also provides access to shower facilities and has a dedicated staff to assist guests with their needs.
Who can access the Amex Lounge at SFO?
Access to the Amex Lounge at SFO is typically limited to American Express cardholders who have a specific type of card that includes airport lounge access as a benefit. The specific card types that grant access may vary, but examples include the Platinum Card® from American Express and the Centurion® Card from American Express. Additionally, some premium airline tickets or membership programs may also provide access to Amex Lounges.
Can non-American Express cardholders access the Amex Lounge at SFO?
In general, the Amex Lounge at SFO is exclusive to American Express cardholders. Non-cardholders or individuals with different credit cards typically cannot access the lounge. However, it’s worth noting that some airlines offer their own lounges at SFO that may be accessible to passengers with specific ticket types or elite status within the airline’s frequent flyer program.
How can I find the Amex Lounge at SFO?
The Amex Lounge at SFO is located in Terminal 3 of the airport’s International Departures area. Once you pass through security and reach the terminal, look for signs or ask airport staff for directions to the lounge. It is recommended to check the airport’s terminal map or consult the airport’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the lounge’s location.
Are there any fees associated with accessing the Amex Lounge at SFO?
While the specific access requirements may vary depending on your American Express card or membership program, there is typically no additional fee to access the Amex Lounge at SFO beyond the cost of holding an eligible American Express card. However, it’s important to review the terms and conditions of your specific card or membership to confirm any potential fees or restrictions.
Can I bring guests with me to the Amex Lounge at SFO?
The guest policy for the Amex Lounge at SFO may vary depending on your American Express card or membership program. Some cards allow cardholders to bring a certain number of guests for free, while others may require a fee for each guest. It’s recommended to review the terms and conditions of your specific card or membership to understand the guest policy for the Amex Lounge at SFO.