Buzz
While accessing an airport lounge with Priority Pass, the complimentary food might not always impress, depending on your location. However, there's a way to enjoy better meals without spending more.
You might not know that Priority Pass offers meal credits, usually around $28, at select airport restaurants in collaboration with them, as Sally French mentions in her article for the Wirecutter. This also helps alleviate lounge congestion and provides an additional perk for members. French clarifies (emphasis mine):
Some of these dining spots even allow you to bring a guest, granting both you and your companion a combined $56 off the bill (even if your guest doesn't have Priority Pass).
All you need to do is show your card, order from the menu, and you'll receive a $28 discount. Any charges beyond that amount are your responsibility, and gratuity is not included (
be sure to tip based on the full price, not the discounted total).
This is a great option if you arrive early at the airport (or have a layover) and want to avoid the often disappointing food offerings in the lounges. French also mentions that she takes advantage of the perk to grab food for later:
There are times when I'm not hungry at the airport, like during a layover in Sydney on my way to Queensland, Australia. Upon arriving in Sydney, I went to Movida (a restaurant offering AU$36 off the bill) and picked up a roast pumpkin and hummus sandwich ($14) and a chocolate croissant ($6), which I saved to enjoy the following day during a hike in
Springbrook National Park
.
According to Priority Pass's website, the offer 'may vary by location and/or time.' The Points Guy provides a list of all Priority Pass restaurants, both in the U.S. and internationally.
To become a Priority Pass member, you can either sign up directly on their website (which requires an annual fee, along with a fee for each visit), or you can gain access through a travel rewards card, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card from American Express, which include it as a benefit.
