ANA Suite Lounge

ANA Suite Lounge NRT design

ANA Suite Lounge – Tokyo Narita (NRT) Terminal 1 Satellite 4

In true Japanese form, the whole staff at the reception desk stands up simultaneously as you enter the lounge, which is located one level above the business class ANA Lounge. Checkin is typically prompt, but the attendants never fail to apologize for the wait – a whole 20 seconds, perhaps, in a serene environment.

The main lounge area by the buffet features various seating arrangements suitable to both individual travelers and groups, with low partitions that foster a sense of privacy. Immediately next to the noodle bar is a small dining room with tables for two. The design is simple, but modern and serene with an emphasis on wood, black and white, and accent lighting. For those more inclined to work or relax than eat, the back room offers cubicles with workstations and massaging chairs. With high partitions, the setup feels private but not claustrophobic. The large windows let daylight in, but offer limited views on the tarmac.

ANA Suite Lounge – Tokyo Narita (NRT) Terminal 1 Satellite 4

Make your way into the main lounge area on your right, and an attendant will immediately greet you, direct you to a seat should you require help – although typically the lounge is eerily empty – hang your coat or jacket nearby, and offer to bring you a drink of your choice, which will be stylishly delivered on a silver tray along with a hot towel.

For better or for worse, that’s the extent of the service. The attendants immediately go back to their various duties, tidying up the already spotless lounge or replenishing the buffet. While they do show up occasionally in order to pick up plates and glasses, they largely ignore patrons as the buffet and bar are entirely self-service. We tend to prefer discrete service and staff availability to overwhelming presence, so we do enjoy this protocol, yet we feel that for a First Class lounge, it is a little odd. Offering to top off drinks, at the very least, would go a long way towards making customers feel more valued. (As a side note, ANA does escort First Class passengers to their aircraft, though.)

ANA Suite Lounge NRT amenities

ANA Suite Lounge – Tokyo Narita (NRT) Terminal 1 Satellite 4

The buffet is the highlight of the lounge. At a first glance, it may appear modest, with a variety of small items. However, this is merely because the staff puts as little food out as possible in order to keep it fresh. The smallest bite will be immediately replenished. Grab a printed menu describing the selection (see the Food & Drinks tab for a sample) and experience a wide range of tasty Japanese and western specialties including appetizers, sushi, hot entrees, and desserts. The acclaimed noodle bar which is a highlight of the ANA Business class Lounge a floor below will also prepare various dishes on demand, including ramen, udon and curries.

The drink selection is generous. An automatic beer machine – a staple of Narita lounges – serves a perfect pour by tilting your glass. Various wines and sakes are available for self-service.

ANA Suite Lounge – Tokyo Narita (NRT) Terminal 1 Satellite 4

Also worth noting are the elegant shower suites with a toilet, large shower, towels, and a range of amenities. Occasionally kits with luxury amenities (L’Occitane, etc.) are available.

ANA Suite Lounge NRT bottom line

Overall, the ANA Suite Lounge at Tokyo Narita airport, Terminal 1 Satellite 4 is the nicest lounge at Tokyo Narita airport, and worth visiting just for the food and drink selection. The range of amenities is solid and the ambiance serene. We just wish ANA would put a slightly greater emphasis on service – perhaps the staff could offer to replenish drinks, order hot food, or simply give patrons an overview of the amenities.