Capital One’s New Lounge at This D.C. Airport Is All About the Food Thanks to a Jose Andres-Curated Menu

It’s not quite a lounge nor a traditional restaurant—but the newest airport concept just might be the best meal you’ll have at an airport. 

First announced over two years ago, Capital One has finally pulled the wraps off of its first Capital One Landing at Washington D.C.’s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA). The latest pre-flight terminal amenity provides a “restaurant quality experience alongside must-have travel conveniences,” Jenn Scheurich, head of Capital One Travel and Lounges, told Travel + Leisure. 

What exactly is it? Well, the 5,500-square-foot “Landing” at DCA is a dining-focused concept with decadent tapas-style dishes, a full restaurant-quality bar program, and lounge-like amenities (Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat). Most notably, the space was created, developed, and is being managed by Chef José Andrés and his team. 

At DCA, Capital One Landing is located in the National Hall of Terminal 2, Concourse D. The credit card issuer is targeting its premium cardholders with complimentary access, although any departing traveler can pay their way in (details on that below). 

The Landing is José Andrés’s first foray into airport dining, and the exclusive deal with Capital One brings his vast resume in food, drink, and design to guests departing from, or connecting through, DCA. And don’t worry, this isn’t just a ploy to get the name “Andrés” on the door. 

“We don’t believe in just putting a name on something,” Scheurich said. The José Andrés Group worked on almost every customer-facing element of the Landing concept, from curating historic Spanish ceramics to introducing a bespoke selection of wines and beers to designing the look of the menus. Executive Chef Patricia Blanco also trained in Spain and has been with the José Andres for more than a decade. 

On the food front, tapas-style dishes are served made-to-order and include a variety of Spanish classics like pan con tomate (grilled bread with tomato), pincho de tortilla de patatas (Spanish tortilla omelet), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and croquetas. There’s also an array of fine Spanish meats and cheeses, with staple items like jamon sourced directly from Spain for added authenticity. For dessert, Basque cheesecake and caramel-topped flan make an appearance. 

A roaming attendant will serve guests mini labneh caviar cones, a decadent surprise-and-delight inspired by tableside experiences at José Andrés Group’s restaurant, The Bazaar. In addition, depending on the time of day, beverage carts will feature a make-your-own gin and tonic station or mimosas with the choice of orange, pomegranate, and pineapple juice. Other standout drinks at the bar include negroni and sangria on tap, along with espresso martinis. 

All of these offerings were designed for travelers who don’t have much time before a flight.

“Unlike our lounge at Washington-Dulles, most travelers at DCA don’t have a lot of time to kill,” Scheurich added. “We managed to create an amazing food and beverage experience that can enjoyed in a very short amount of time.”

How to Access Capital One Landing and Make a Reservation

Capital One Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders, along with one guest, receive complimentary access to Capital One Landings when departing from DCA, up to three hours before a flight. Additional guests are $45 per visit. Any traveler can also pay their way in for $90, if space allows.

To snag one of the 90 seats, Venture X and Venture X Business members can use the Capital One app to book reservations which open up to six months in advance. It’s the first time a credit card issuer has allowed non-same-day reservations to an airport lounge (or lounge-like) space. Scheurich says a “significant” number of tables will also be allocated for walk-ins.

Following the Landing’s debut at DCA, Capital One will bring the concept to New York’s LaGuardia Airport’s (LGA) Terminal B in early 2025. The company already has Capital One Lounges open at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW), Washington-Dulles Airport (IAD), and Denver International Airport (DEN).