Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at New York/Newark Airport is an oasis of design and service within the otherwise uninspiring Terminal B.

Located immediately behind the B51-B57 security checkpoint, next to the British Airways Galleries Club Lounge, the Clubhouse used to welcome Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class passengers. While Virgin Atlantic has suspended flights from Newark, the Clubhouse has resumed operations under management by Plaza Premium, the world’s largest independent lounge operator.

The club welcomes all pay-in customers, as well as American Express Platinum card holders.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse EWR design

Creative end edgy designs are in Virgin Atlantic’s DNA, and the Clubhouse at Newark airport does not disappoint.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

Nested on the upper level of Terminal B, right above the Satellite 2 security checkpoint, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse occupies a compact room on a utilitarian floor with a skylight as the sole source of daylight. The designers have achieved a remarkable feat by transforming the somewhat lackluster space into the terminal’s most remarkable club featuring a creative layout, playful colors, eye-catching shapes and angles, and a unique ambiance.

In typical Virgin Atlantic fashion, the central bar stands as the focal point of the design. It’s an invitation to indulge, but also a smart layout that seamlessly breaks out space by carving out intimate areas at the periphery.

There’s a profusion of seating options and furniture, ranging from traditional to downright cheeky, and perhaps even a tad provocative.

Near the lobby is the more traditional section of the club. Guests will find their choice of lounge seats arranged in a living-room-like setting, as well as tabletop seating along the wall.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

Walking around the bar counter-clockwise, the mood becomes more jovial. The TV area sports oversized chairs with colorful pillows, bright red side tables, and thick curtains that dampen noise while creating an intimate feel. In the opposite corner, the eye is drawn to three intimate upholstered pink booths with accent lighting, offering plenty of intimacy. Virgin navigates a fine line between airline club and private club with lighthearted humor.

A few steps further is a booth seating area that accommodates groups and families with more conservative tones.

The adjacent dining area strikes a careful balance between trendy décor and space efficiency. The space accommodates a dozen tables for two, comfortable booths, and additional counter-style seating for solo travelers.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

Approaching the lobby is an intimate and playful seating area furnished with couches and a myriad of pillows. It’s a fun place to soak in the VIP ambiance with friends and indulge in a few drinks, or perhaps to catch a bit of shut-eye in a corner at quieter times.

The décor is bold and provocative, but never obnoxious. Background music adds to the ambiance without attracting attention.

The only miss is the relatively limited number of power outlets. And while there’s plenty of solo seating, the design favors couples and groups. At peak times, the lounge does get busy and finding a quiet spot might be a challenge.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse EWR amenities

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at New York-Newark airport offers a complete line-up of amenities with a few luxurious touches.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

In lieu of a traditional buffet, Virgin Atlantic offers complimentary restaurant-style service. Sit anywhere in the dining area and a friendly host will promptly present a menu along with a cocktail list. Highlights include chicken gyoza with soy sauce, smoked blue cheese and organic beetroot flatbread, and baked chocolate mousse. Health-minded patrons will find lighter options including a grilled vegetable salad, a vegetarian pho noodle bowl, and passion fruit sorbet.  Service is casual but refined, and the fare is fresh, tasty, and creative.

A creative selection of cocktails and generous wines pair up nicely with the meal. The bartenders-turned-baristas will also craft a wide variety of espresso drinks upon request.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

Two boldly-decorated shower rooms (one per gender) are outfitted with an accessible rain-shower, a toilet, a sink, and Cowshed bath products and lotions. With only two bathroom stalls per gender, however, guests should expect the occasional line.

Other amenities include a baggage storage area near the lobby, and a selection of newspapers and magazines.

Despite an otherwise impressive range of amenities, the Clubhouse offer few options for business travelers. Wi-Fi is sluggish, especially at peak times, there are few convenient workspaces with power outlets, and the lounge lacks printing facilities. Evidently, the emphasis is on indulgence—work can wait.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse EWR bottom line

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – New York/Newark, NJ (EWR)

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at New York/Newark airport is a hidden-away gem within Terminal B. The fun and cheeky design strikes the right balances between comfort, privacy, and convenience. The line-up of amenities covers all the essentials for transatlantic travel, including Wi-Fi and showers. But it’s the luxurious extras such as the full-service complimentary restaurant and handcrafted espresso drinks that make the experience memorable.

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is the best pay-in lounge at Newark airport. Unfortunately, since the B51-B57 section of Satellite B isn’t connected airside to any other terminal and lacks both TSA pre-Check and CLEAR, a visit from Concourses A or C is an unlikely endeavor. If you do choose to make the trek to the Clubhouse, be sure to allow at least 40 minutes to get to your gate.