The experience begins before you even cross the threshold at the new Delta One Lounge at JFK in New York.

American airports, especially those in the commercial capital, are notorious for long queues, surly border guards and chaotic bag checks.

Here? None of that.

The new facility has its own private security screening, which can be navigated with minimal hassle, before an elevated walkway leads directly to the warm embrace of the lounge. Bliss.

Once inside, the world is your oyster, there is so much to do you may wish you had a little longer to explore.

Those who have to work can take care of business in one of eight individual soundproof booths located in two areas, while a partnership with espresso Displays lets guests borrow a second monitor to complete any last-minute tasks.

As with much of the design, it is easy to forget you are in a lounge – this is a fully-functioning office space, with all the equipment needed.

With work out of the way, it is time to enjoy, with the sweeping 39,000-plus-square-foot space offering a variety of experiences and amenities for the premium traveler.

How about a proper, restaurant quality meal?

The lounge features a 140-seat brasserie restaurant, delivering a three-course meal service.

Restaurant Associates and Union Square Events (a Danny Meyer concept) have collaborated to elevate the culinary experience in the Delta One Lounge, with dishes such as Hamachi crudo, steak tartare and lasagna Bolognese.

There is no cutting corners on the drinks selection, either, and I was able to enjoy a Mâcon-Villages, Albert Bichot, Chardonnay with my meal, one of a number of fine wines on offer with dinner.

Service, even during a packed evening shift, was also personalised, discreet and efficient, with my server chatting with me by name, remembering my drinks order and finding out more about my trip – pretty unusual in these circumstances.

Prefer to set your own pace?

Take charge of your dining experience with the Market and Bakery, featuring seasonal culinary offerings plated for walk-up service.

Beverage cart service allows you to enjoy premium hospitality without leaving your seat.

After dinner, there is a chance to relax in the spa.

Here, guests can prepare for the journey ahead, with the area equipped with nine reservable relaxation pods with full-body massage chairs and nap chairs, as well as treatments from Grown-Alchemist certified therapists.

I enjoyed an arm and hand massage during my visit and even received some tips on how to relieve tension in my muscles once I got home – meaning the Delta One Lounge experience continued to be positive, even long after I left.

Adjacent to the wellness area, the Serenity Lounge provides a quiet, tranquil space designed for pre-flight peace of mind.

Specialty lamp lighting mimics the light colours affecting the circadian rhythms of the body, helping you get acclimated to the time zone to which you will be flying – or so they say.

Drink to your health at the Rejuvenation Bar, featuring refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages and fruit and herb-infused waters and juices.

Travellers with serious engagements can also take the chance to freshen up at one of eight well-appointed shower suites, featuring towels, bathrobes and slippers, Grown Alchemist products.

Clothes and shoes need a glow-up, too?

Leave your items inside the suite closet; a valet attendant will steam and/or shine them and return them while you shower. Pretty Impressive.

Before heading for the plane, there were a couple of other areas to quickly explore.

The Terrace offers views over the apron, and is replete with regional, seasonally updated plants – real plants, bathing in real sunlight.

This lush outdoor oasis has a retractable roof and is designed to stimulate the senses (while calming the nervous system); enjoy it 365 days out of the year.

Finally, the premium bar, serving elevated takes on classic cocktails, features a standout Art Deco-inspired lighting fixtures and nods to the gold leaf ceiling and chandeliers of Radio City Music Hall.

A roaring fire completes the look.

“Our teams have spared no detail to ensure Delta One Lounge guests receive a truly memorable experience,” said Claude Roussel, vice president – Delta Sky Clubs and Lounge Experience.

“It’s a new era for Delta – this lounge is raising the bar across the board, from the amenities to the food and beverage offerings to the level of personalised service.

“We want our guests to feel the difference here; moreover, we want them to feel welcomed and valued from the moment they step through the door.”

Even after all the exquisite experiences, Delta saved the best for last.

As I was regretfully leaving the lounge en route to the plane, I was beckoned to a waiting Porsche Cayenne for the trip.

Whisked down the backstairs, we wiz across the tarmac and arrive in a few moments, letting me board at the front door of the aircraft, skipping the gate entirely.

In a manoeuvre lasting just a few minutes I have gone from the comfort of the lounge to the comfort of my seat onboard – even New Yorkers, some of the hardest people to impress in the world, are going to find it hard to beat that!

More Information

Delta offers the most flights and seats of any carrier at JFK, with more than 200 total peak-day departures to more than 90 domestic and international destinations.

The carrier is currently flying its largest trans-Atlantic schedule ever from JFK, with more than 240 weekly departures to 26 destinations, including new destinations like Naples and destinations not flown since before the pandemic, like Shannon, Ireland.

Delta is considered North America’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards

Find out more on the official website.

Chris O’Toole