American Express Elevates Airport Dining with New Chef Partnerships and 'Sidecar' Lounge Concept

From left: Chefs Sarah Grueneberg, Kwame Onwuachi, Mike Solomonov and Mashama Bailey, and Bar Director Harrison Ginsberg

American Express is significantly enhancing its airport lounge experience with two major announcements. Firstly, the company is launching "The Culinary Collective by The Centurion Lounge," a new initiative bringing James Beard Award-winning chefs and a top bar director to create new, rotating menus for all 15 U.S. Centurion Lounges. Starting July 29, 2025, chefs Mashama Bailey, Sarah Grueneberg, Kwame Onwuachi, and Mike Solomonov, alongside bar director Harrison Ginsberg, will contribute seasonally changing dishes and cocktails, comprising about half of each lounge's menu, complemented by local specialties.

A rendering of the bar area at Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge

Secondly, American Express is introducing "Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge," a new concept designed for travelers with less time. These speakeasy-inspired lounges will offer premium cocktails and gourmet small plates from The Culinary Collective, providing a quicker, more intimate experience. The first Sidecar lounge is expected to open at Las Vegas (LAS) in 2026, aiming to offer an expedited option and help alleviate crowding at existing Centurion Lounges.

A rendering of the bar area at Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge

These initiatives underscore American Express's commitment to providing elevated and diverse culinary experiences for its Card Members traveling through airports.