Today the new American Express Centurion Studio opened in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (HT to The Points Guy). Located across from gate B3, it will be open from 5 AM to 10 PM every day and is most convenient for travelers on Southwest and some Delta flights who depart from Concourse B. However, most gates at SeaTac are part of a single building with no need to re-clear security, and there is an inter-terminal train from Concourse B that connects to most international flights departing from the South Satellite. If you’re used to using the Alaska Airlines Board Room, the Centurion Studio is a 5-minute walk.
I’ll do my best to head over there this week and get a more detailed look at what’s on offer. Until then, here’s what we can figure out from the website.
Food and Beverages
One of the most interesting things to me has been the quality of the food and beverage on offer, since we were told that the Studio concept would be more limited than a full-fledge lounge. A menu has now been posted:
It looks very similar to the scope of a standard domestic airline lounge, however I’m assuming the quality will be a significant improvement. For example, not just your average yogurt and cereal dispenser but instead local Greek-style yogurt and small-batch granola. I don’t mind the limited offerings too much — there are plenty of great restaurants in the terminal if you need something substantial.
Beverages are a bit of a shock. The wine, beer, and soda are all locally sourced — if you’re not familiar with Seattle, the Lucille IPA is one of my favorite local beers. However, I don’t see cocktails anywhere on the menu. It does not surprise me that there is no specialty cocktail menu. However, I hope they can at least serve a gin and tonic. In-person research will be necessary. 😉
Amenities
Only a couple basic artist renderings show us what the inside will look like, which appears pretty typical of the larger Centurion Lounges. Expect WiFi, televisions, power outlets, and reading materials. But there is no shower.
I’ll wait until I can visit in person to get a better sense of the interior.
Access Rules
Getting into the Centurion Studio is different from the Centurion Lounges you’re used to. Only those with an American Express Platinum Card or Centurion Card are allowed, whereas the lounges permit other American Express cardholders to purchase a day pass for $50. Additionally, the guest privileges have been reduced to one guest instead of two. Immediate family are still permitted.
