Introduction

Tucked within the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX, the Star Alliance First Class Lounge offers a serene, impeccably appointed retreat for top-tier travelers seeking privacy and polished service before long-haul departures. Designed with a restrained modern aesthetic — warm wood, leather seating, and generous natural light — the lounge pairs intimate seating niches and spacious dining areas with premium amenities such as à la carte dining, full-service bars, private shower suites, and dedicated concierge assistance. With sweeping runway and terminal views, attentive staff, and a peaceful atmosphere that prioritizes comfort and efficiency, the lounge delivers a refined pre-flight experience befitting first-class passengers and invitees.

The Star Alliance First Class Lounge at LAX is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), airside on the departures level. After clearing security, follow signs to the mezzanine/lounge level near Gates 140–150 (southwest side of the terminal).

Access

Access to the Star Alliance First Class Lounge at LAX is restricted to passengers flying in first class on a Star Alliance member airline departing from Los Angeles. Eligible travelers must be ticketed on the same day’s international departure in first class; connecting or domestic-first tickets do not qualify. Additionally, certain elite program rules or partner-awarded first-class tickets may be reviewed case-by-case by lounge staff.

Star Alliance Gold status and business-class tickets do not grant entry to this first-class lounge. Access may also be extended to one guest traveling on the same flight as the first-class passenger, but the exact guest policy can vary by airline and should be confirmed prior to travel.

Lounge

The Star Alliance First Class Lounge at LAX is intimate compared with its larger Business Class counterpart, yet it delivers a calm, comfortable environment designed for relaxation and discreet conversation. Seating is arranged in paired chairs and sofas to promote privacy, and the overall layout is deliberately understated. Toward the rear of the space guests gain easy access to two restrooms and a small cluster of four dining tables configured to emulate a fine dining atmosphere; an à la carte menu is offered for lunch service and is executed to a high standard. Beverage options include an upgraded alcohol station alongside a well-curated self-serve drink buffet that will satisfy discerning enthusiasts, and a casual snack selection — including instant Shin Ramen — provides a welcome comfort choice.

Adjacent access to the Business Class lounge expands the guest experience; holders of appropriate credentials may freely move between the two spaces to use additional amenities. The Business Class area houses a media room well suited for catching up on sports and news in a quiet setting, while shower suites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for passengers arriving on long sectors or looking to refresh before departure. It’s a nice departure for those that value privacy. First Class Lounge prioritizes a serene, refined experience with thoughtful dining, beverage and comfort facilities that complement the broader range of services in the connected Business Class area.

A selection of reading material is available, though the former wall of printed copies now serves as a display. Passengers are directed to connect to the lounge’s Wi‑Fi and use the PressReader app to access complimentary digital publications — a convenient way to build a library of reading for the flight, and a useful alternative to downloaded video.

Elsewhere in the lounge a more discreet feature awaits. This is one of the world’s most exclusive public lounges, accessible only to First Class ticket holders, yet it contains an additional layer of privacy: two private VIP suites concealed behind unmarked doors. Rather than a separate, third “private lounge,” Star Alliance reserves these invitation-only suites for high-profile guests — a fitting arrangement in a setting frequented by Hollywood and business elite.

Dining Options

The Star Alliance First Class Lounge at LAX offers a refined à la carte dining experience focused on quality and presentation. The B‑2 Pasta — angel hair with pesto and shrimp — is a standout: perfectly cooked, balanced, and emblematic of the elevated first‑class meal service. First‑class dining emphasizes freshly prepared dishes delivered to the table rather than buffet self‑service, so expect composed starters, mains and desserts made to order.

First‑class guests also have access to the adjoining Business Class lounge, which provides a more casual, self‑service complement. The Business Class dining options include a lively noodle bar where you can build your own bowl from a selection of ingredients and four different broths, a rotating hot‑food selection, and a variety of “healthy” beverage options. A striking wine‑rack wall anchors the dining room and highlights the lounge’s more sociable atmosphere. The noodle bar is especially popular among guests.

Both lounges offer a complimentary bar service for first‑class passengers. In the First Class Lounge this tends to be more curated — premium spirits, champagne and carefully prepared cocktails — while the Business Class bar is well stocked for casual pours. Other complimentary amenities for first‑class guests include private seating areas, shower facilities, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, and attentive staff service; access to the Business Class lounge adds greater variety in hot food stations and self‑service options.

Star Alliance’s Los Angeles First Class lounge notably offers à la carte dining in addition to a well-presented buffet, a step up from the buffet-only Business Class next door. However, the business class lounge’s buffet provides cheese, charcuterie, sandwiches, wraps, salads, fruit and desserts for quick or supplementary bites, while a broad self-serve beverage selection includes multiple gins, whiskies, tequila and other spirits, plus sparkling wine options such as Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Brut and Rosé.

Curated for Class?

Star Alliance’s First Class lounge is intentionally built exclusively for First Class passengers. The Star Alliance First Class Lounge at LAX delivers a refined pre-flight experience that lives up to its promise: an elegantly curated space, attentive service, and a standout à la carte dining menu that turns a meal into a memorable moment. Thoughtful menu choices, precisely plated courses, and efficient table service make dining here feel more like a private restaurant than an airport lounge, elevating the entire visit.

Equally impressive are the private seating areas and plentiful amenities — from quiet nooks and dedicated shower suites to well-appointed rest areas — which together create a calm, luxurious respite amid Los Angeles International’s bustle. For travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and a truly premium start to their journey, this lounge is a consistently excellent choice.

Curated for Class Final Score | 34.5/40

Star Alliance’s 1st Class Lounge presents a compelling luxury lounge option out of LAX, offering a private, discreet and exceptionally exclusive lounge environment reserved solely for First Class ticket holders (expect random celebrities and CEOs at this lounge), an experience only a few select travelers will ever enjoy.

Food & Drinks: 9/10

Ambiance & Crowd Levels: 9/10

Staff Service: 8.5/10

Amenities: 8/10

Lounge Review: Star Alliance First Class Lounge | LAX