American Express is once again reimagining the airport lounge experience with its latest innovation: Sidecar by Centurion Lounge. Designed with the modern traveler in mind, this new lounge concept caters to those who are short on time but still want to indulge in a premium pre-flight experience.
Launching first at Las Vegas (LAS) in 2026, Sidecar is not a replacement but a complement to existing Centurion Lounges—offering an elevated yet streamlined space for Platinum and Centurion cardholders.
What Is Sidecar by Centurion Lounge?
Unlike traditional lounges where travelers might linger for hours, Sidecar is specifically tailored for quick visits. Think of it as a luxurious airport speakeasy—guests will be able to enjoy premium cocktails, curated small plates, and top-tier service in an intimate, efficient setting.
American Express noted that many travelers spend less than an hour in their lounges. Sidecar is Amex’s direct response, offering 90-minute access windows and a menu inspired by the new Culinary Collective, which features James Beard Award-winning chefs like Mashama Bailey and Kwame Onwuachi.
Access will be complimentary for eligible cardholders, including those with:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- The Centurion Card® (invite-only)
If you’re flying Delta, you can also gain access with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, but only when traveling on a Delta-operated flight booked with your card.
Want to elevate your airport experience?
Apply for a Platinum Card here or Business Platinum Card here unlock Centurion Lounge and Priority Pass access, plus other travel perks. Welcome offers can go up to 200,000 points, depending on your targeted offer.
How Sidecar Stands Out
While full Centurion Lounges offer expansive buffets, showers, and quiet areas, Sidecar will focus on premium speed and quality. Guests can expect:
- Craft cocktails by world-renowned mixologist Harrison Ginsberg
- Chef-driven bites like Suya Short Ribs or Lemony Orzo
- A more intimate, design-forward space to escape the airport chaos
This concept immediately reminded me of a similar setup I experienced at the Air Canada Café at Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ). I didn’t have time to relax in the main lounge, but they had a quick-service area with grab-and-go options like sandwich wraps, cheese and crackers, fruit, canned drinks, and even small brown baggies to carry it all. I was in and out in less than five minutes, saving both time and money while still benefiting from my lounge access. These setups are perfect for travelers like me who want premium service without the need to sit and stay.
This move mirrors what other premium card issuers are doing, including Capital One’s Landing Lounges launched at DCA, which also mix gourmet bites with a quick-exit experience. But unlike those, Amex’s Sidecar remains exclusive to eligible Amex cardholders, preserving its prestige.
So… When Will Chicago Get a Centurion Lounge?
Now, as much as I appreciate this new addition, I have to say it—why does O’Hare International Airport (ORD), one of the busiest airports in the country and my home hub, still not have a single Centurion Lounge?
If you’re a Platinum cardholder (personal or business), you do receive complimentary Centurion Lounge access for yourself (guest access costs extra unless you spend over $75K per year on your card). You also receive Priority Pass lounge access, which is what you’ll need to rely on at ORD.
But let’s be real: at O’Hare, that means the Swissport Lounge, which… let’s just say is not the vibe. It’s often overcrowded, offers very limited food and drinks, and to make matters worse—it’s also the designated lounge for Qatar Airways, LOT Polish, and a few other premium international carriers. So if they’re flying a full business cabin, Priority Pass holders are often denied entry.
For a city of Chicago’s size and significance in domestic and international travel, it’s baffling that we still don’t have a proper Centurion Lounge. Hopefully, Sidecar is a sign of more investments to come—even in underserved hubs like ORD.
Bonus: Centurion Lounge Menus Are Getting an Upgrade
In addition to Sidecar, Amex is rolling out new Culinary Collective menus at all U.S. Centurion Lounges starting July 29, 2025. These rotating menus will feature dishes by:
- Mashama Bailey (The Grey)
- Kwame Onwuachi (Tatiana)
- Sarah Grueneberg (Monteverde, Chicago)
- Mike Solomonov (Zahav)
These new additions aim to offer more localized, flavorful dishes while still maintaining the premium Centurion experience.
Final Thoughts
Sidecar is an exciting development for Platinum and Centurion cardholders who want a more efficient, elevated airport experience. But for those of us flying out of hubs like O’Hare, we’re still waiting on the basics—a true Centurion Lounge to call our own.
Until then, Sidecar is a welcome expansion. Here’s hoping more thoughtful lounge solutions roll out nationwide, and soon.
Interested in unlocking lounge access, travel credits, and concierge services? Apply for the Amex Platinum Card to access Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and more. Welcome bonuses can reach up to 200,000 points, depending on your offer.
