Lufthansa Opens Sleek New Business Class Lounge in Newark
The renovated lounge will be the prototype for the German carrier's revamp of its business lounge network
by Lauren Smith
August 15, 2024
Lufthansa has officially opened its revamped business class lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), offering travelers a fresh and sophisticated preflight experience. This newly designed space is part of the airline’s broader Allegris concept, which aims to deliver a personalized and elevated experience across its network.
The remodel at Newark is a significant step in this direction, blending modern design with local touches to create an inviting environment that sets a new standard for airport lounges.
The Allegris Concept Takes Off
Lufthansa’s Allegris concept is enhancing every aspect of the travel experience. Launched earlier this year, Allegris debuted in the air with a range of new business class seats, offering passengers options tailored to their needs—from extra space for work to secluded seats for privacy. Now, this ethos of choice and comfort extends to the ground with the new lounge at Newark.
Travelers at Newark can explore a variety of spaces within the lounge, each designed to cater to different needs. Whether you’re looking to relax before a flight, catch up on work, or enjoy a meal, the lounge offers an array of options.
The layout includes a horseshoe-shaped bar, a conference room, and a relaxation area, all designed with flexibility in mind. First-class passengers can also access a private dining room for an exclusive pre-flight meal.
Local Flavors
The culinary offerings at the new lounge focus on quality and local sourcing. Guests can enjoy hot and cold dishes from an expanded buffet that features both German classics and local favorites. The bar serves a selection of German and New Jersey beers, including brews from Cape May Brewing Company and the Bavarian Hofbräu München.
In a nod to its New Jersey location, the lounge also highlights locally farmed ingredients in its Bistro area. The rotating menu includes summer dishes like Jersey corn sweet bread with candied tomato jam and BLT sandwiches made with trumpet mushrooms, bacon, and Jersey tomato jam on sourdough bread.
For first class passengers, a private dining section offers an à la carte menu with premium wines and champagne, providing an elevated dining experience that complements the lounge’s luxurious setting.
A Modern and Sustainable Design
The design of the Newark lounge represents a significant departure from its predecessor. Gone is the sterile, utilitarian look of the old space, replaced by a warm, inviting environment that uses natural materials like blonde wood and brick to create a sense of place.
Spanning over 6,370 square feet, the lounge can comfortably accommodate up to 165 guests—a 25 percent increase in capacity from the previous design.
The space is divided into zones to cater to different needs, from work to relaxation. One-third of the lounge is dedicated to business travelers, with community tables equipped with wireless charging and power outlets. The rest of the space is designed for comfort, with a variety of seating options to suit individuals, couples, and groups.
Two private rooms are available for meetings, calls, or even as a play area for children, ensuring that the lounge meets the diverse needs of its guests.
The design also incorporates urban and industrial elements, giving the lounge a modern yet luxurious feel that aligns with Lufthansa’s brand identity.
Location and Access
Located in Terminal B, Concourse B3, near gates 60 to 68, the lounge is conveniently positioned for Lufthansa’s daily flights to Munich and Frankfurt. It’s open daily from 2:15 PM to 9:30 PM, aligning with the airline’s flight schedule.
Access to the lounge is available to first and business class travelers on Lufthansa, SWISS, and other Star Alliance carriers, as well as to Hon Circle and Senator elites in Lufthansa’s Miles & More frequent flyer program. Holders of Amex Platinum, Amex Business Platinum, or Centurion cards with Lufthansa tickets are also welcome.
The Future of Allegris Lounges
The Newark lounge is just the beginning. Lufthansa plans to roll out the Allegris lounge model at Washington D.C.’s Dulles International Airport (IAD) and New York’s JFK Airport.
At JFK, the new lounge will be part of the brand-new $4.2 billion Terminal 6, which Lufthansa will share with JetBlue. However, the terminal won’t open until 2026, with full completion expected by 2028.