What Is It Like to Visit the New York JFK Chase Sapphire Lounge?

Located within the bustling New York Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Terminal 4, visitors can now indulge in the luxurious amenities of the newly renovated Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, which opened earlier in February 2024.

As one of the largest financial institutions in the city that never sleeps, Chase has spared no expense in creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere for weary travelers to relax and recharge before their flight.

Location

The Chase Sapphire Lounge is located on the mezzanine level, next to the American Express Centurion Lounge and the left of security. Before the pandemic, this lounge used to be operated exclusively by Etihad Airways.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge, New York JFK. Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

However, due to Covid-19, it was closed for a few years. After undergoing renovations, the lounge is now co-owned and co-branded by Chase, Etihad, and The Club.

Access Options

Chase Sapphire Reserve VISA card holders and two accompanying guests can enjoy complimentary lounge access through their PriorityPass membership. Other premium cards, like the J.P. Morgan Reserve or Ritz Carlton Credit Card, also grant access.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge, JFK. Courtesy of Chase

Additionally, Etihad’s First and Business Class passengers and the airline’s gold and platinum elites are welcome in the lounge.

The Lounge

Occupying 7,600 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the tarmac, this moderately sized lounge is bright in the daytime and vibrantly decorated.

The centerpiece bar with highchairs, wide sofas in the corners, comfortable booths lining the walls, and colorful recliners with dining tables are all good seating options.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge, New York JFK. Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Curved high ceilings, black marbled walls, light and warm wood paneling, and industrial-chic lighting fixtures with hints of gold elicit a premium vibe, similar to a modern hotel bistro.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge, New York JFK. Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Furthermore, with ornamental books, real green plants, and contemporary artwork curated by the JP Morgan Chase art collection strategically placed throughout, the atmosphere is elevated, conveying the glamor and vigor of air travel.

Food and Beverage

The buffet offers small dishes in black and white bowls featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines that adhere to Halal standards. Also, patrons can order from the a la carte menu by scanning a QR code.

I ordered the Sapphire burger with fries, which were freshly made and brought from the kitchen by a server. The burger was one of the best airport versions I’d ever eaten.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge cheeseburger, New York JFK. Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Other notable made-to-order dishes that day were tomato and fennel soup, lamb meatballs in romesco sauce, and gluten-free Japanese noodles with smoked tofu and shitake mushroom.

Chicken tenders and grilled cheese were on the menu for kids and adults seeking for comfort food. In addition, passengers have choices of canned drinks, Joe Coffee from a big machine, teas, craft cocktails, and wines to pair with the restaurant-quality food.

Amenities

The restrooms and shower suites in serenely rosy mood lighting supply the luxurious Apotheke brand of liquid soap and lotion.

Photo: Chase Sapphire Lounge, New York JFK. Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Adjacently, there are two reflection rooms for prayers, which are accommodating and appropriate for the Abu Dhabi-based carrier. Free Wi-Fi and power outlets are available as well.

Verdict

In the competitive market of New York City, Chase now has footprints in both Kennedy and LaGuardia Airports.

Competing head-to-head with the next-door neighbor, the American Express Centurion Lounge, the JFK Chase Sapphire Lounge can hold its own and give travelers a pleasant and delicious experience.

However, expect this lounge to be crowded during peak hours and when Etihad resumes the operation of Airbus A380.