Airline clubs aim to offer an escape for travelers from the stresses of flying. The problem here is that not all airlines clubs are created equal, with some being significantly better than others. That makes it our goal to visit as many as possible, so you know exactly what to expect on your next trip. Today we will be reviewing the DFW American Express Centurion Lounge before going over how you can get in on your next trip.
Seating
The seating in the American Express Centurion Lounge is nice but limited. Typically there is plenty of space during non peak hours. During peak hours, however, the lounge tends to be crowded but I have always been able to find a seat. There is a variety of seating, including bar seating, dining seating, and more plush chairs like you find at most lounges.
The majority of seating through out this lounge is dominated by tables with chairs. It would be nice if they had a few more lounging chair options but given the importance this lounge places on their food selection it does make sense for them to have mostly tables for eating. The chairs were comfortable and as you can see above they offer reserved tables for anyone who is an American Express Black Card member.
Location
The American Express Centurion Lounge is located in Terminal D on the second floor near gate D17. Note that there is a dedicated escalator for the Centurion Lounge (located near the Dylan’s Candy Bar) – you can not access the lounge from the restaurants located on the second floor of the terminal. The first time I went to the Centurion Lounge was also my first time in Terminal D at DFW and finding the lounge proved somewhat tricky.
Also, due to the location of the lounge, you are not able to see any of the planes taxiing or sitting at the gate. All views from the lounge are of the inside of the terminal but since Terminal D is very large and open it still allows for a lot of natural light during the day.
Food & Drink
The food and drink at the Centurion Lounge is by far one of the top selling features and the best I have experienced between the DFW lounges. The Centurion Lounge offers craft cocktails in addition to a full service bar and a great wine list. Next time you are in the Centurion Lounge, consider foregoing your standard drink order and pick something off the craft cocktail menu. Drinks on this menu are designed by mixologist Jim Meehan. The list features 10-15 cocktails with an option fit for everyones palate.
The buffet in the Centurion Lounge is complimentary. The food at each lounge is different and created by award winning chefs. At the Centurion Lounge at DFW, the menu is designed by James Beard award winner Dean Fearing.
I have been in the lounge to experience both the breakfast and lunch/dinner menus. Both menus feature dishes with meat and vegetarian options. Most recently when I was visiting the lounge during breakfast hours, there was an egg frittata with tomatoes and caramelized onions. This dish had great flavor development – I would have ordered this again had it been a restaurant!
Amenities
The Centurion Lounge at DFW has many amenities for visitors of the lounge. Often when i visit the lounge, the staff asks if i would like any spa services, including massages and manicures.
In addition, the lounge features showers, conference space, free internet, and public computers.
Club Staff
The club staff at the Centurion lounge has always been beyond helpful and even recognizes me when I return. They have always kept the plates stocked at the buffet and are very attentive in clearing away dishes. Then the bar tenders make great drinks and are very knowledgable about the speciality drinks when explaining them.
How can you get in the American Express Centurion Lounge?
Individuals who have the American Express Centurion card and the American Express Platinum card receive complimentary access to the Centurion Lounges when showing a valid boarding pass for same day travel. These individuals are also eligible to bring two guests or immediate family at no additional charge. All other American Express cardholders are eligible to purchase a day pass for $50.
Pros
- Food selection
- Amenities
- Friendly staff
Cons
- Amount of seating
- Limited views
Final Thoughts
The Centurion Lounge is a great lounge option at DFW, especially for American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders. I definitely recommend Platinum cardholders visit the Centurion Lounge rather than the Priority Pass Lounge at DFW, where they also receive complimentary access. The lounge has great food and drink options but slightly trails the Admirals Club locations at DFW in terms of seating. Overall it is an excellent place to spend your time waiting for your next flight. We would love to hear from anyone who has visited this lounge and what your thoughts were. Until next time!
Window Seat Weekends 