Airport Dining: Is a Lounge Pass Worth the Cost?
Airports have always been a hub for restaurants, providing necessary refreshments for passengers and crew members. Even after meals became standard onboard, airport restaurants continued to serve as catering sources for airlines and a dining option for passengers who preferred to eat on the ground. However, the cost of in-terminal eateries can be eye-popping, especially if airports do not enforce pricing covenants to keep prices in line with those outside the airport. So, is it worth buying a lounge pass to save on dining costs?
Lounge Pass Cost and Usage
When comparing the value of a lounge pass to dining in the terminal, it is important to know the cost. Lounge passes for the Alaska Lounge cost $65, $79 for the American Airlines Admirals Club, and $59 for United Club. However, Delta does not sell lounge passes, and American Express lounges are only available to cardholders. Capital One sells day passes to the general public for around $90, while some cardholders receive a discounted rate of $45. However, lounge passes can be difficult to use, and it is recommended to not buy them in advance as lounges are often full and do not accept day passes. It is also important to note that some airports have affiliated lounges that offer day passes at varying rates, which can be booked in advance for guaranteed availability.
Lounge Dining Options
It is important to understand what is included in a lounge pass, as the marketing may make it seem more luxurious than it actually is. While the food quality may vary, it is often similar to institutional food service and rarely much better than a three-star hotel. Additionally, lounges rarely post menus in advance, making it difficult to value the admission cost. Most lounges limit visitors to three hours or less, which may not allow enough time to fully take advantage of the buffet or bar options. Furthermore, lounges do not always have a wide variety of options, and frequent travelers may find themselves disappointed by the limited choices.
Terminal Dining Options
The cost of dining at an airport terminal can vary widely, depending on the airport and the type of outlet. Some airports have contract provisions that prioritize local vendors over national chains, while others have street pricing programs that limit vendor markups. For example, San Francisco International Airport has a street pricing program that limits vendor markups to 11% higher than city prices. This means that a bánh mì from a local vendor would cost around $14, while a sandwich, side of egg rolls, and Vietnamese coffee from a terminal vendor would cost $33. 55. This is significantly less than the cost of a lounge pass.
Restaurants Outside the Terminal
Some airports have restaurants within walking distance of the terminal, providing an alternative to both lounge and terminal dining options. For example, at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, 13 Coins Restaurant is located across the street and is a popular choice among travelers.