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On my trip to Bangkok (via Taipei TPE) on the incredible new Starlux Airlines business class, I had access to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in the international terminal at the San Francisco Airport thanks to my business class ticket and my priority pass members through the American Express Platinum card. I had high hopes for this lounge given Virgin Atlantic’s reputation, but let's dive into how it actually stacks up.
How To Access the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at SFO
The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at SFO primarily serves Virgin Atlantic Upper Class passengers, Delta One travelers on international flights, and those with elite status, such as Flying Club Gold and SkyTeam Elite Plus members flying internationally with Virgin Atlantic or Delta. Select partner loyalty members, including Virgin Australia Velocity Gold, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Gold, and Air New Zealand Elite, also enjoy access when traveling on Virgin Atlantic. If you're connecting on the same itinerary in Upper Class or Delta One, you may also qualify for entry.
Priority Pass holders may have access during limited hours, but availability is often restricted due to space constraints. In my case, Starlux provided lounge access as part of my business class ticket. If you still need access to Priority Pass lounges, there are a whole bunch of popular (and good) travel cards that will give you access:
What Are The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse’s Hours?
The lounge is open from 4:30 am to 11:30 pm daily. It’s worth double-checking with Priority Pass or Virgin Atlantic on lounge access during specific hours, as it occasionally restricts entry for Priority Pass holders due to limited seating.
The lounge is open to Priority Pass from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 10:00 pm to 12:00 am daily depending on capacity constraints.
Finding the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
The Clubhouse is located in SFO’s International Terminal A, near Gate A3. After clearing security, turn left and follow the signs to the cluster of airline lounges. The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is alone on the top (5th) floor. One small inconvenience is that you must take an elevator to reach the 5th floor where the lounge is located, and I found myself waiting quite a bit for it.
Lounge cluster entrance
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse entrance
Checking Into the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
I arrived around 10:00 PM, and although there was a slight wait for someone to come to the front desk, the staff quickly made up for it with their warm and friendly demeanor. The attendant at check-in was polite and efficient, and the bar staff were equally attentive, ensuring everyone had what they needed despite the late hour. Throughout my time in the lounge, the team remained professional and approachable, adding a pleasant touch to the overall experience.
Check-in desk
Priority Pass announcement
When I arrived at the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, I noticed a sign stating Priority Pass wouldn’t be accepted because of a delayed Virgin Atlantic flight, despite the lounge being completely empty. They did eventually allow Priority Pass holders back in at 10:35pm.
My Impressions Of Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
My first impression of the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse was how quiet it was. The space itself feels somewhat like a long hallway, with a bar on one side and large windows on the other, providing views of the tarmac and the bay. Seating is limited; there’s a counter with chairs along the windows and a handful of tables near the bar.
Given the Clubhouse’s small size, it makes sense that they limit Priority Pass access. During my visit, the lack of seating wasn’t an issue due to the quiet atmosphere, but I can see how it could fill up quickly during busier times.
Seating area to the left of the enrtrance
Bar and window counters
Something you will not find in this lounge is space taken up by a buffet, as all food is ordered at and delivered to your table. Each table has a QR code to scan for the menu, which you can use to place your order. Drink orders can also be placed directly at the bar.
QR code for ordering at the table
The bathrooms were spacious but felt a bit outdated. Two of the unisex bathrooms double as shower suites, which could be a plus for those looking to freshen up before their flight.
Bathroom area
Bathrrom
The Food At Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at SFO: Pretty Disappointing
At my table, I scanned a QR code to check out the menu. The menu was easy to use and order, and it’s fun to order food directly to your table. But once the food arrived… it wasn’t great.
Menu photo 1
Menu photo 2
Menu photo 3
I started with a Caesar salad, which was basic, and then tried the noodle bowl, which tasted like packaged ramen. The fruit bowl I ordered was also a letdown, resembling a canned fruit cocktail rather than fresh fruit.
My meh order
To be fair, Virgin had switched over to their late-night menu by the time I arrived, so it’s possible the food might be better earlier in the evening. When I first walked in, I saw some more appealing dishes being served, so timing may play a role in the quality.
My Overall Rating Of the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse In SFO’s International Terminal: Decent for Drinks and a View, but Skip the Food 4/10
In the end, I’d only recommend the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax with a drink before your flight. The lounge’s small, exclusive feel and the bar’s solid selection of drinks are its high points. However, the food left a lot to be desired. Here’s my breakdown:
- Food Quality & Variety: 3/10
- Cleanliness: 5/10
- Interior Design: 5/10
- Unique Amenities: 4/10
If drinks and a calm environment are your priorities, this lounge could fit the bill. For better food options, consider exploring other lounges in the airport.
