Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge at LaGuardia is the Best Lounge in America

While often requiring a wait, it is worth it

The main bar at the Sapphire Reserve Lounge LaGuardia

Since the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge at LaGuardia opened in 2023, it has been a must stop on my travels to LaGuardia. Even when I have access to the very nice Admirals Club at LGA. 

Why?

Because, like Centurion lounges that came before it, it offers far better food, drink and ambiance offerings than other lounges in the Priority Pass or American, Delta or United portfolio. 

This lounge doesn’t nickel and dime on a la carte food or drinks. They have specialty cocktails, craft beer and superior wines when you compare to the domestic legacy carrier lounge network. All (mostly) included. 

The space is gorgeous. Taking up two floors. And despite not having a window anywhere in the lounge, it feels warm and inviting. It is also a large size, helping accommodate more than some other Sapphire Lounge’s in the network. 

The bar on the main floor is the centerpiece. It is surrounded by seating and a stairwell to the upper level. There are also multiple little rooms for smaller groups that give some heft to the space. Past the bar is the buffet, with solid food options. And you can order drinks and a la carte food directly to your seat. 

Upstairs is terrific as well. While there isn’t a bar, ordering to your seat is easy there as well. I have never waited more than 10 minutes for a drink ordered through the on table QR code.

And Chase also offers complimentary facials. Availability can be limited but E was able to get one after her stressful departure on La Compagnie. 

When you arrive at the lounge, there is frequently a wait, and the staff at entrance do a nice job checking people in prior to make for an easier experience once inside. They take your flight information and you tell them if you are a Sapphire Reserve member or if you are using a pass from Priority Pass/Sapphire Preferred. 

I will say that I once arrived at LGA within the three hours of my flight departure, but my flight was delayed and the team checking in people at the entrance would not let me in since my new flight time was outside of the three hour window Chase permits guests to arrive. 

Once you are admitted, you take an elevator downstairs and are checked in again. This time they will ask for your Priority Pass membership card or Reserve card. 

From there, find a spot and enjoy some great food and drink.