Priority Pass is a well-known program that offers access to airport lounges around the world. However, many people may not be aware that Priority Pass also includes access to certain airport restaurants as part of their membership. This article will provide an overview of the Priority Pass restaurant benefit in the U.S., including a list of eligible restaurants and how to determine if your membership offers access to these dining experiences.
As of the most recent update, there are 37 Priority Pass restaurants at 25 airports in the U.S. These restaurants offer sit-down dining experiences for eligible Priority Pass members. The list of participating restaurants may change periodically, so it’s always a good idea to check the Priority Pass website for the most up-to-date information before heading to the airport.
In addition to airport lounges and restaurants, Priority Pass also offers access to other non-lounge experiences. These include an hour in a private room at select Minute Suites locations, use of a game station for one hour at select Gameway locations, select treatments at participating Be Relax Spa locations, and discounts with select airport merchants through retail offers.
To access the Priority Pass restaurant benefit, you need to have an eligible Priority Pass membership. While you can purchase a Priority Pass membership, many premium credit cards offer this membership as a complimentary perk. However, it’s important to note that if your Priority Pass membership is through an American Express card, you won’t have access to non-lounge airport experiences such as restaurants and spa treatments. Similarly, as of January 1, most Capital One cardholders no longer have complimentary access to Priority Pass restaurants and other non-lounge experiences.
On the other hand, Priority Pass memberships provided by other credit card companies, such as Chase and Citi, still offer access to most non-lounge experiences. Some of the top credit cards that currently offer Priority Pass Select membership, which includes restaurant access and other non-lounge experiences, are the Chase Sapphire Reserve, UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card, and Capital One Venture X Business.
Once you have a card offering Priority Pass membership, you need to enroll in Priority Pass if your issuer doesn’t automatically enroll you. After enrollment, you will receive digital access and a physical Priority Pass card in the mail. It’s recommended to carry the physical card with you as some lounges and restaurants may not accept digital cards.
When you arrive at a participating airport restaurant, inform the greeter or host that you plan to use your Priority Pass membership for your meal. The restaurant will let you know if they are currently participating in Priority Pass and if they accept Priority Pass members. Each restaurant sets its own rules and may have seating limitations or restrictions on the number of guests you can claim.
The dining credit amount varies by restaurant, but most offer members a credit of $28 to $30 per guest for food and drinks. It’s important to check the restaurant’s Priority Pass page for specific details. Some restaurants may prohibit to-go or grab-and-go orders, and leftovers may not be allowed. If you don’t use your entire credit, you will not receive a refund.
Some common questions about Priority Pass restaurants include how many times you can visit these restaurants within a day. If there are multiple participating restaurants at an airport, you can visit all of them if time permits. However, some restaurants may only allow access to travelers with outbound boarding passes, so you may not be able to visit a Priority Pass restaurant if you just landed at your final destination.
Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders with Priority Pass Select membership do have access to Priority Pass restaurants, cafes, and markets. The primary cardholder and authorized users can enroll in this complimentary membership and bring up to two guests per visit at no extra charge, although some restaurants may allow fewer guests.
When using your Priority Pass benefit at a restaurant, it’s important to tip as you normally would on the full amount of your bill. Most restaurants do not allow you to use your Priority Pass credit towards gratuity. If your credit fully covers your bill, some restaurants may be willing to charge a minimal amount to your card so that you can leave a tip. However, it’s advisable to have cash on hand in case you need to leave a cash tip.
In conclusion, Priority Pass offers access to a network of airport lounges worldwide, as well as select airport restaurants and other non-lounge experiences. The list of Priority Pass restaurants in the U.S. is subject to change, so it’s recommended to check the Priority Pass website for the most up-to-date information. Eligible Priority Pass members can enjoy sit-down dining experiences at these restaurants as part of their membership. By enrolling in Priority Pass and having an eligible credit card, you can take advantage of this benefit and enhance your travel experience.