First Look: Inside the New Capital One Landing Lounge at Washington DCA

Capital One has reimagined its airport lounge experience with the debut of Capital One Landing at Washington D.C.’s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA).

In partnership with Michelin-starred chef José Andrés, this first-of-its-kind lounge redefines the pre-flight airport experience, blending curating dining, tech-forward amenities, and a sleek, functional design.

Photo: Courtesy of Capital One Landing DCA

Located in Terminal 2’s National Hall near Concourse D, this 5,500-square-foot space lacks amenities like showers and carrel-style workspaces. However, it makes up for this with an exceptional dining program featuring elevated grab-and-go options.

Additionally, a second Capital One Landing is set to open in Terminal B at New York LaGuardia (LGA) in 2025.

“We wanted to create a way to have an elevated food experience that was low stress and easy,” said Lia Dean, President of Banking and Premium Products for Capital One. “We really came up with something that we were excited about, that had a modern feel, that had plugs everywhere, and incredible food.”

Business Traveler got a first look at this space, which opened to travelers on November 19.

A Welcome Departure

Upon entering Capital One Landing, you’re greeted by an inviting design that features warm, earthy tones. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer views of planes taxiing to and from their gates on the tarmac.

Photo: Courtesy of Capital One Landing DCA

Central to the lounge’s appeal is its thoughtfully arranged layout, comfortable U-shaped booths that foster collaboration, and two-top tables for solo travelers working ahead of their flights.

A bar area with cushioned stools and high-top tables facilitates relaxation and conversation. On arrival, travelers are assigned seats at one of the tables in the lounge.

Photo: Courtesy of Erin Gifford

Soft ambient lighting, concentrated in the center of the lounge, enhances the openness while steering clear of harsh fluorescent glare. Amenities like power outlets at every seat, under-table hooks, luggage nooks, and high-speed wi-fi add to the functionality of the space. There are also two private restrooms within the lounge.

Global Flavors

At the heart of Capital One Landing is undoubtedly its culinary program, helmed by Chef José Andrés. Inspired by his Spanish heritage, the menu celebrates the vibrant, communal spirit of tapas culture.

Favorites like pan con tomate, pincho de tortilla de patatas, and gambas al ajillo, bring bold, authentic flavors to a menu exclusive to Capital One Landing at DCA.

Photo: Courtesy of Erin Gifford

Travelers can enjoy made-to-order selections or opt for ready-to-eat options from an artisanal glass case.

“I’ve been here for many, many years,” said Chef José Andrés. “I know this airport, and so for me, it was like, why not do a restaurant in an airport? I have restaurants in many cities, and for me, it was a no-brainer when I saw what Capital One [wanted to do].”

Photo: Courtesy of Erin Gifford

Inspired by tableside experiences, roving food and drink carts deliver freshly prepared offerings to your seat. Morning mimosas and pastries brighten early morning flights, while later in the day, travelers can indulge in savory Basque cheesecakes or caviar cones – labneh topped with caviar and a hint of lemon zest.

Hand-crafted signature cocktails, like the Perfect Gin & Tonic and the Fino Snapper, a sherry-infused take on the traditional Bloody Mary, elevate the beverage program and are complemented by a selection of regional wines and craft beers. A dedicated gin and tonic cart roams the space with gins, tonics, and garnishes.

Photo: Courtesy of Capital One Landing DCA

For those short on time, the On the Fly section features pre-packaged offerings, like bocata de tortilla de patatas and flautas, along with salads, sandwiches, and fruit cups.

This a la carte area is accessible to cardholders and non-cardholders, but Capital One Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders receive a 50 percent discount on grab-and-go purchases.

Where Technology Meets Hospitality

Convenience and efficiency shine through in Capital One’s tech-forward approach. Each table is equipped with a QR code, allowing guests to browse the menu and place orders, such as olive oil pancakes and toast montaditos in the breakfast hours. Travelers can also input any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Photo: Courtesy of Capital One Landing DCA

The Capital One mobile app adds another layer of ease and convenience, allowing Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders to check lounge capacity in real-time, reserve their access up to six months in advance, and join a digital waitlist.

Lounge Access

Capital One Landing is open to all travelers. Complimentary access is extended to Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders, who may bring one guest free of charge. There is a fee of $45 for each additional guest.

Venture and Spark Miles cardholders can enter the lounge for a reduced rate of $45 per visit, while non-cardholders can enjoy the space for $90. Children under two are admitted at no cost.

Operating hours are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. For quick pre-flight snacks, the On the Fly section is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.