Virgin Atlantic clubhouse review: the only flaw is that it is in terminal 4 at JFK

Already the fact that Virgin Atlantic's VIP lounges are not called lounges but clubhouses, makes it clear that this is not just another lounge. If then all frequent flyers always point them out in the list of the best lounges, it means that besides marketing there is also a lot of substance.

Substance that has not changed, although in recent months there has been a passing of the baton in the management of the various VS-owned lounges around the world. Now - with the exception of the one in London - all the rooms went under Premium Plaza.

The staff operating in the clubhouse then no longer that of the company, but the feeling is that the mentality and service maintain the carrier's standard even though it is now run by a third-party company.

The location

The hall is in the A gate area, past security you need to turn left and pass Amex's Centurion Lounge and Etihad's VIP Lounge, go down to the gate level and continue along the terminal following the signs to the airline lounges.

Upon reaching the end of the terminal, a flight of stairs leads to the upper level, which houses not only Virgin's Clubhouse but also the Emirates and Air India lounges, the latter of which is also accessible to Priority Pass holders.

Lounge access

In order to enter you must have a business class flight with Virgin Atlantic or Delta, departing from terminal 4, or alternatively be Gold In the Flying Club loyalty program or Gold Medallion with SkyMiles.

Or, new in recent months, be an American Express Platinum holder or a Dragonpass card, similar to Priority Pass. This is because all Premium Plaza lounges around the world, also that of Rome Fiumicino, are accessible to Amex customers.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to move between terminals without having to leave the sterile area,  as is the case, for example, at London Heathrow, and this means that if you don't start from this terminal you can't visit this lounge.

The hall

The style is very reminiscent of London's, on the other hand New York represents the first market For the airline.

The only route operated entirely with the new flagship, the A350/1000 with the new upper class cabin.

The hall is large and overlooks the runways of the New York airport on two sides, giving beautiful views to the plane spotting enthusiasts.

There is the restaurant area with the tables perfectly set.

There is the lounge area that overlooks the bar and is very reminiscent of 1960s movies, a theme that is also reminiscent of the London lounge.

Also here, as in the English capital, there is a pool table, surrounded by a beautiful sofa.

Then there are so many other types of seating, from sofas to pods where you can isolate yourself in search of some silence.

Finally being my visit during the Christmas holidays, there was a beautiful Christmas tree made from the champagne bottles that are served to guests, a great design choice.

Services

Immediately at the entrance is the luggage room with a piece of art in the center, a giant author's apple.

There was, because it may not reopen, also a small spa. In London it was eliminated and Peloton exercise bikes were put in its place; we'll see what choice will be made here in New York. What is certain is that getting a massage, or a haircut, while watching the sunset while waiting for one's flight was a real experience.

Of the pool table I have already written, but it is definitely a nice pastime to kill the wait for the flight.

The hallway leading to the bathrooms and showers is also nontrivial.

The showers, unlike in many other lounges, are free access and you don't have to ask anyone to use them. Here is perhaps the one case where an extra check wouldn't hurt. They are spacious and designer, decorated with very 1960s tiles.

Food & Beverage

As with London, the menu is digital, but paper menus are also provided if desired. Guests can order anything they want from the comfort of their seats and being served directly at the table.

There is a variety of choices, including a menu designed especially for children, the dishes offered range from various world cuisines, and the presentation is as polished as in a restaurant. The offer, however, is less than what is proposed across the ocean, Or maybe we are the ones who are too demanding.

Also very long is the wine and cocktail list, which is also the result of a fully stocked bar and qualified bartenders to meet all kinds of requests.

In conclusion

Passing through this terminal for us Italians is not so rare, sure ITA and Air France use T1, but Delta's flights to Italy leave from here and Emirates, as well as those of Swiss, KLM and Air Europa.

The lounge is lower than in London, but it is definitely better than what Delta offers with its SkyClub, and it is a step above even Emirates' neighboring lounge.

The only flaw, perhaps, is just the fact that it is located in terminal 4 of JFK airport. Here in fact are the two best lounges in the entire New York airport, in addition to the Clubhouse also the brand new Centurion Lounge.

This is just one of many reviews you can read on our site. Covid and restrictions permitting, Every Wednesday we publish a review of a lounge airport, while every Friday you can read the review of one of our flights or a hotel where we stayed.