Emirates Lounge

LONDON HEATHROW TERMINAL 3

BACKGROUND The Emirates’ lounge in Terminal 3 was last renovated and expanded in October 2015 and accommodates 400 guests.

FACILITIES Up a spiral staircase, the lounge is a vast, U-shaped space that includes numerous living areas furnished with posh artwork and glossy coffee tables. Armchairs upholstered in caramel and gray leather line the space, offering passengers the option to work in privacy, watch the news or recline facing the runway.

Passengers can board the aircraft directly from the lounge. There are power plugs at every armchair, and there is a business center near the boarding door with four Lenovo computers. There are men’s and women’s shower facilities where towels, dental kits and toiletries are conveniently provided.

The food and drinks offering is impressive, with a dedicated dining area at the back of the lounge and well-

stocked bars at intervals throughout. Veuve Clicquot bubbly is free-flowing, but there are also red and white wines. When I was there, these included two buttery Burgundies, a Mosel Riesling, a big-hitter of a Bordeaux red from 2006, and a younger Spanish Priorat with strong red berry flavors. There is also a good selection of quality spirits next to a coffee maker and a wide variety of teas.

The back wall of the canteen is reserved for hot dishes such as braised lamb, roasted peppers, fish pie and salmon teriyaki. Juices include kale, spinach and apple, tomato, and cloudy apple.

A free-standing station is dedicated to cold dishes, including pulled duck confit, grilled tuna salad, caramelized goat’s cheese and beetroot horseradish salad. There is also a dessert station with a broad cheese selection, pavlova and rhubarb crumble.

VERDICT A well-equipped lounge with outstanding food and drink, and plenty of secluded spots to work or relax. The facility to board directly from the lounge is also a huge plus.

Veuve Clicquot bubbly is free-flowing but there are also reds and whites including two buttery Burgundies