Close your eyes and picture the airport terminal as you know it. Not all that appealing. Now dig deeper into your creativity and imagine a secret five star hotel beneath all the sterile spaces, with an ambiance so warm you may entirely forget you’re supposed to be flying. Somewhere even beyond your wildest imagination lays The Pier from Cathay Pacific, their newest and best First Class Lounge…
Access: OneWorld Emerald on OneWorld flight in any cabin or First Class on OneWorld airline.
The Lounge + Seating Areas…
Pier entrance #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
After a bit of a journey to Gate 63, which requires a tram ride, guests are rewarded with the sign above, the first signal that their airport experience is about to undergo a wonderful change. Down the escalator we go…
Pier hall #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
After a warm check in the first thought is simply “wow”. This is no longer an airport. There are no temporary ceilings, sterile walls or torn carpets, this is an oasis of soft, warm tones and cozy themes with truly unique spaces suited for all travelers. Now we move to the left…
Pier seating #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
To the left, and directly in front you’ll find the main seating areas. Surprisingly (because it’s an airport) these seating areas are perfectly designed for work and play. Power ports are neatly tucked into furniture all over the seating area. Couches, suede chairs and gorgeous exposed woods continue to beam through the space, which has unbelievable view of the runway and gates, completing the airport “nerd” experience…
Pier Bar #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
But like any good traveler it’s the bar that draws us in. On the left side of the lounge, if facing the tarmac, you’ll find a gorgeous cocktail bar serving quite possibly the finest mojito I’ve had anywhere near an airport. The beverage list is extensive and the bartenders are very well trained to make virtually anything a discerning traveler could ask for. Now to the right…
The Food Hall…
Pier Dining Bar #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
You’ve probably caught onto the theme that the gorgeous space we first entered is the central hallway to all the goodies.To the far right of The Pier you’ll find the food hall. As a total design novice I couldn’t tell you a thing about the space, but the tranquility of the leather and wood makes me think of a room where respected Admirals would dine in a more civilized time. The bar is no exception…
Pier dining #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
When it comes to food- looks help, but it’s all about the taste. For the first time in all of my wildly extensive travels I can absolutely proclaim that the food in the lounge was on par with anything you’d hope to find in a restaurant outside of an airport. Quality ingredients, beautiful plating and wonderful service. I had the Tuna Niçoise followed by the Hong Kong Noodles, both of which were delectable. And for you champagne fans out there, be sure not to miss the hard to find Rothschild Champagne, a real treat!
The Facilities + Amenities
CX Pier Hall #theta360 – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
Yes, your eyes are dialed in. There are foot massages, private relaxation rooms, showers and everything else which could benefit a weary traveler. The place is truly magic. Even those looking forward to a first class flight with Cathay Pacific or another OneWorld partner will struggle to leave the space. It’s so wonderfully refined, thoughtful and attentive that one simply could not ask for more. You’ll love it.
If We Had To Be Picky…
Even with a gun to my head I couldn’t come up with a fault to the lounge itself. If we had to be picky, we’d suggest that Cathay work out some sort of streamlined, golf cart type service to fast track passengers over to the far area where The Pier can be found. It’s quite the hike. That’s it though, we just want to get there faster…
