Introduction

The American Express Centurion Lounge at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport offers a serene, design-forward escape for eligible cardholders navigating Sea-Tac’s busy terminals. Located post-security in the C Concourse, the lounge combines locally inspired cuisine and craft beverages with elevated amenities—spacious seating, private work zones, shower suites, and curated art—designed for both productive layovers and relaxed preflight moments. Service is attentive and the atmosphere prioritizes comfort and privacy, reflecting AmEx’s signature blend of hospitality and refinement. Access is reserved for Centurion and Platinum card members, with guest policies and hours that vary by location.

This newly renovated lounge opened in February 2023 after a series of attempts to address chronic overcrowding and the limited space available for its many customers. Having visited the Time Lounge nearly every week throughout 2024–25, I can confidently say it ranks among the very best credit-card lounges and stands out as my favourite within the Centurion Lounge network — largely because it offers several unique features and services that other lounges simply don’t.

Location

The Amex Centurion Lounge is actually situated in a very convenient spot within Seattle’s main terminal. It sits on the mezzanine level above the food court, so once you clear security you can easily make your way over to the lounge. When you’re facing the food court, head toward the back left (you can actually spot the sign and the lounge as you exit security) and then take either the stairs or the elevator up to the entrance. The reception desk is positioned at the top of the stairs and the check-in attendants were exceptionally friendly and professional. The Amex Lounge is currently open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but during peak travel hours it can feel as crowded as any other lounges. With the rise of new routes both domestically and internationally, expect this lounge to be further utilized during those operational hours.

Cardholders with the Amex Platinum Card, Amex Centurion Card, and Amex Business Platinum Card have access to the lounge. Note that recent changes to the guest policy mean Platinum members cannot bring guests in unless they meet the new $75,000 annual spending requirement; otherwise you’ll need to pay $50 per adult guest and $30 per child, while children under 2 are admitted free.

Lounge Layout

As this is the third iteration, the lounge has grown to 14,000 square feet compared to the initial pop-up lounge back then with 4.500 square feet. There are various seatings everywhere, and even a spot for those with the coveted Amex Centurion Card. There is the bar once you enter to the right, and is incredibly beautiful and well-designed. The area has great seating, a dozen of communal and private tables.

Head back and there are a few more dining tables and several couches for families to sit down and relax. The dining area is right in the middle of the lounge and features of the prettiest design that I’ve been seen in an domestic US lounge. The space has a ton of dining tables spread across a longe walkway. Heading all the way back is the final room of the lounge, which features several sofas and lounge chairs for those that want a place to rest and unwind.

I quite like the design of the lounge, and really love the decor of this place. It’s definitely a step up from US domestic lounges and has a brevity of space for people to move around, which is a blessing when the lounge gets packed. Ultimately, the lounge feels incredibly premium and elevated compared to all its competitors in the Sea-Tac airport, and is easily one of the nicest lounges in the country - all while adding new concepts and seatings to their already busy lounge.

Food & Drinks

I was there in the morning and breakfast was being served. While the menu can change depending on vendor source and seasons, I’ve attached the sample menu from their website:

The buffet in this particular lounge is one of the best. This is indeed one of my favorite breakfast selections as the food isn’t just some cookie cutter menu, but one that’s actually curated and well-developed. Amex definitely is elevating airport lounge food through their partnership with Chef Kristi Brown, owner and chef of Communion Restaurant and Bar in Seattle.

Breakfast options are plentiful - there are a plethora of fruit, yogurts, granola, oatmeal, bagels and light pastries. On top of that, you have a hearty selection of hot foods such as egg scrambles, french toast, paprika roasted potatoes, local sausages and more. As much as I wanted to eat another plate, I had to hold myself back, haha. In addition, you can also get healthy choices towards the coffee shop, which I’ll get to later on.

The lounge bar at the Amex Centurion Lounge in Sea-Tac delivers what any business traveler would want: strong drinks and a vibrant experience. Its compact yet well-appointed bar offers a curated cocktail menu that leans contemporary — balanced classics and inventive signatures made with quality spirits and thoughtful garnishes. Service is attentive without being obtrusive, and the bartenders are happy to recommend drinks. The setting complements the rest of the lounge: polished finishes, comfortable seating and enough bustle to feel lively while still allowing for relaxation. It’s a notable spot to start a journey or unwind before a flight; the cocktails are solid enough to merit a return visit to sample more of the menu.

The Coffee Bar | Wellness Cafe

Perhaps my favorite part of this lounge is the wellness cafe, which is a first I believe for the Amex Centurion Lounge. There are two coffee baristas that make some of the best honey lavender lattes. There is a selection of coffee drinks that one can ask for, and they’re relatively quick at making it. They also feature several well-designed small plate bites, which featured burrata, power bowls and more. In the afternoons, they switch it to sandwiches, kale ships and other healthy alternatives. It’s a great vibe and the Blue Roast coffee bar is an immediate selling point fro me.

The Coffee Bar — branded Blue Roast — at the Amex Centurion Lounge in Sea-Tac is a concise expression of thoughtful hospitality: a dedicated café corner that balances indulgence with wellness. It offers a rotating selection of local roasters alongside signature espresso-based drinks, all presented within a calm, lounge-forward setting.

What makes Blue Roast notable is its dual focus. On one hand, it showcases Seattle’s vibrant coffee culture—single-origin pours, seasonal blends, and curated local beans—so travelers can enjoy authentic regional flavors rather than generic airport coffee. On the other hand, the menu and presentation lean toward health-conscious choices: lighter milk alternatives, lower-sugar preparations, herbal and functional tea options, and grab-and-go bites that emphasize whole ingredients, fresh fruit, and balanced nutrition.

This combination serves two traveler needs simultaneously. Coffee aficionados get a genuine taste of place through thoughtfully sourced beans and skilled extraction. Health-minded guests find options that support clean eating and sustained energy without the typical airport indulgence. The result is a small but meaningful wellness touchpoint that elevates the lounge experience.

I absolutely love the inclusion of this concept and hope Amex will continue to expand it to other Centurion Lounges. Scaling Blue Roast would be a major perk—giving more members both regionally specific coffee selections and consistent, health-forward café offerings that feel modern, considerate, and well executed.

Curated for Class?

If it’s not busy, a great recommendation.

Where The Sea‑Tac Centurion truly distinguishes itself is its culinary focus, without a doubt. The kitchen stages rotating regional menus that spotlight Pacific Northwest ingredients — think real breakfast and lunch, amazing coffee service, and inventive small but healthy plates — all prepared to a level that rivals neighborhood restaurants. A full bar complements the menu with signature cocktails, an attentive wine list featuring boutique West Coast labels, and a rotating selection of craft beers. For a lounge of this scale, the quality and creativity of the food-and-drink offering feel unusually generous and make it a destination in their own right rather than merely a convenience.

Be mindful that the lounge’s popularity can create a lively atmosphere during peak travel hours. Sea‑Tac’s Centurion is compact compared with big international lounges, and it fills up quickly during morning and late‑afternoon waves. Seating is a mix of communal tables, smaller clusters for two or four, and a few quieter alcoves; power outlets are thoughtfully located though occasionally scarce when the lounge is busy. Despite the bustle, staff maintain efficient service, and the food stations and bar turnover smoothly.

In short: if you value elevated, locally inspired dining and want an easy, no‑nonsense entry experience at Sea‑Tac, the Amex Centurion Lounge is a top pick. Plan for peak‑hour crowds but expect consistently well‑executed cuisine, a polished beverage program, and a welcoming environment that makes waiting between flights decidedly more pleasant.

Curated for Class Final Score | 31.5/40

If you have the Amex Platinum Card, this is must-go for your early flights or for a night flight. The food is an absolute joy here, and the coffee bar is one of the best. I just wished it wasn’t crazy packed during the mornings.

Food & Drinks: 8.5/10

Ambiance & Crowd Levels: 7/10

Staff Service: 8/10

Amenities: 8/10

Lounge Review: American Express Centurion Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport