I grant one Five-Star rating per category and it goes to the DFW AMEX Centurion Lounge. I fly American Air Lines quite often and they route me through DFW which allows me to use this AMEX Platinum benefit; arguably, it's the best benefit. The Centurion airport lounges are second to none of the domestic American air carrier lounges (I've been in at least one of them all).
Location: The lounge is tucked away above the main food court on DFW's D Concourse. It's on the second floor so you don't hear or deal with any of the foot traffic from the first floor. It's a good location for people watching because, from almost every part of the lounge, you get a pretty good view of the foot traffic. Other airport lounges focus on airfield views which get a little boring after a while. Watching epic spills while people try to pull the Home Alone dashes through the airport is a little more interesting.
Ambience: It's as eye-popping as you can get. AMEX mastered the art of blending modern furniture, sleek white and dark-wood lines and frosted glass. The furniture, outside of the quiet area, can be a little uncomfortable at times but it's meant to be for short (6 hour or less) stints. If you spend more time, catch one of the quiet area seats. Most times it's quiet except when there are significant weather delays. The other business travelers are pretty respectful and even families don't have really loud conversations. The bar area and the TV lounge adjacent to it are really nice touches. The separation of each area for functionality (bar, TV area, bar, quiet area, work areas, etc.) is appreciated.
Food: The food is AMAZING. There is no comparison with any of the other lounges. First, it's free; how can you beat that? When I first heard the announcement about the lounges and their "free food;" I expected it to be the pitiful showings at the airline lounges: cookies, peanuts, olives, celery, etc. AMEX put them all to shame when they capitalized on a benefit that their customers want. I've had a variety of chicken creations. One of my favorite dishes was a play on grits that included a cream of mushroom flavor; magnificent! They have a FULL salad selection with really nice dressing options. And yes, they have dessert. I always love their mini-cakes and at one point I had a banana's foster creation, all delicious. If the food isn't enough, the bar will impress you.
When other airlines say a "full bar" they really mean: a few different types of bottom-shelf liquor and beer. And, if you ask for a mixed drink at an airline club, don't expect to get a good Old-Fashion or something like that; not so at the Centurion Lounge. When they say "full bar," they mean it. Top-shelf everything and they even have a few kickers, including one of my favorites, Pimm's. When I ask for mixed drinks, they are well-mixed and professionally presented. The non-alcoholic options are also extensive. They have some flavored waters that are refreshing and delicious.
Service: The service staff is a perfect example of around just enough to know what you need but not annoying. Yes, the front-desk staff members check you in but they also ask you: "would you like a massage scheduled, wifi access codes, etc." They're not just a gate-keeper, they help you use the facilities to the maximum extent. The roving staff hardly ever leaves a glass unfilled or a dirty plate at my table and; they actually will have a conversation. I remember one trip, when it wasn't busy, that I had about a 5 or 10 minute conversation with one of the staff members about a TV show. I've never had that happen at another club with staff members I didn't already know (family or family friends). The bar staff is phenomenal. Not only are they quick but they are good at what they do. And if they don't know how to make something they'll look it up and ask you how you want it prepared.
Amenities: I've already mentioned the bar, which is a huge plus. But the Centurion Lounge also offers wifi, free massages, manicures and clean restrooms. The wifi is exceptional. Of all of the lounges I've visited, there's is the fastest and most reliable. Yes, they offer free massages and manicures ... tip the staff (it's not required but good Lord, it's free). It only lasts for about 15 minutes but hey, that's a nice perk, especially when none of the other lounges offers it. Clean bathrooms are always overlooked; I like to highlight it because it's an important reason why people like the private lounges. I've never been to this lounge when the bathroom wasn't spic and span.
Overall: My only complaint is that American Express doesn't have more of these lounges at other airports like ATL, SLC or DEN. I'm sure they have plans to open others. If you're a Platinum or Centurion cardholder and you haven't used one of these lounges on layover, when able, shame on you. Do it! American Express: Well Done! read more