It’s not really a lounge. Capital One calls it a landing.
Basically it’s an airport restaurant where the food is free (for Capital One Venture X cardholders) and every table has an electrical outlet.
Capital One had been exploring Washington’s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) for some time, so when the opportunity arose to bid on a space, they converted what was previously a security checkpoint into a modern airport restaurant. Designed in collaboration with world-renowned chef José Andrés, the Capital One Landing aims to go beyond the typical airport lounge or grab-and-go restaurant.
Located in National Hall, Terminal 2 (both terminals at DCA are connected past security), the 5,500 square meter space offers travelers a relaxing José Andrés restaurant experience in the middle of a bustling airport environment. Part of the Landing is located directly adjacent to the hall and is open to the passing crowd.
Following launch, Capital One plans to introduce a similar concept at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, expanding a growing network to include other locations with more traditional lounges such as those at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dulles International Airport (IAD ) and Denver. International Airport (DEN).
Capital One Landing seating area at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Do people ask you to travel? recommendations? You could make money with that.
“If you build it, they will come,” David Borowik, Capital One’s head of Airport Experiences, Programs and Partnerships, told USA TODAY during a press preview of the space. Recognizing that Reagan National is primarily a departure airport with quick turnaround times, the Landing at DCA caters to travelers who are more focused on grabbing food and have little time for lounging.
“Most people are looking for a quick bite or a place to sit, recharge and maybe download a USA TODAY article or a movie,” Borowik explains. This focus shaped the approach where a short stay “doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality”, thanks to a menu designed to be both efficient and premium.
Capital One Landing at DCA offers an exclusive tapas menu created by Chef Andrés, featuring dishes such as pan con tomate, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and croquetas, a selection inspired by Andrés’ restaurant concept, The Bazaar. The quality of the food tasted like any Andrés restaurant.
Capital One Landing bar at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
For those with limited time, Andrés has created a menu that emphasizes speed and taste. Borowik said that “the shrimp cooks very quickly, literally 60 seconds to plate and serve.” This efficiency, combined with ‘authentic ingredients straight from Spain’, ensures that the flavors are of a higher level than those of a regular lounge buffet.
Capital One hopes to “surprise and delight” with interactive elements, including a morning mimosa cart with a variety of juices, an afternoon cheesecake cart and a gin and tonic cart inspired by local DC cocktail culture.
Travelers can go to the counter for a selection of cheeses, meats, desserts, coffee and drinks, or use a QR code to order hot dishes directly to their seat.
Jenn Scheurich, head of Capital One travel and retail experience, said she hopes travelers get what they want in “less than five minutes.” She added that customers can order their favorite tapas, be served quickly and still get to their gate on time.
Capital One Landing’s “On The Fly” express service area at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
For those on the go, Capital One is introducing “On the Fly,” an a la carte, express service option. With breakfast items, sandwiches and salads prepared by the Andrés team, travelers can enjoy a meal “at cost” thanks to a 50% discount for Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders.
“That’s one of the biggest draws,” Borowik added. “With a 50% discount you get something at cost – an option for travelers who may arrive late and just want to go home with a quality meal.”
How do you get to the Capital One Landing?
The Landing offers a tiered admission model: Venture cardholders for free, a benefit intended to make traveling easier for families.
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Venture Additional guests for $45.
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Venture and Spark Miles cardholders: can purchase admission for $45.
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All other ticket holders and non-ticket holders: can purchase admission for $90.
Please note that space is limited. As with any restaurant, travelers can make reservations in advance or check if there is room for walk-ins.
All travelers, whether they have a Capital One card or not, can purchase items in the “On the Fly” section. Venture X cardholders get a 50% discount on their purchases there.
Josh Rivera is USA TODAY’s travel editor.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What to know about the Capital One Landing, how to get in
