This SECRET Amex Speakeasy Lounge in Vegas?! You’re Not Ready🍸

The Points Guy | Departures
The Points Guy | DeparturesMay 8, 2026

Why It Matters

Sidecar gives Amex a premium, on‑the‑go lounge option that boosts cardholder appeal and could reshape airport lounge strategy toward compact, high‑velocity service.

Key Takeaways

  • Amex launches hidden Sidecar lounge at LAS airport
  • 1,500‑sq‑ft space seats 33, focused on quick visits
  • Made‑to‑order menu rotates seasonally, 8‑minute service goal for travelers
  • Access requires Centurion card, entry limited to 90 minutes pre‑flight
  • Speakeasy vibe offers curated wines, cocktails, no buffet self‑service

Summary

American Express has opened a new speakeasy‑style lounge, Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, in Terminal 1 of Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport (LAS). Tucked near gate D1 and the escalators, the 1,500‑square‑foot venue marks the first of its kind for the card issuer.

Sidecar is deliberately intimate, offering just 33 seats and a menu that rotates seasonally. Unlike the larger Centurion lounges, it serves made‑to‑order dishes with an average eight‑minute turnaround, and it forgoes buffets or self‑service bars in favor of a restaurant‑like experience.

Access remains limited to eligible Amex cards, but guests must arrive within 90 minutes of departure, reinforcing its role as a quick pre‑boarding stop. The cocktail menu highlights the namesake Sidecar, and curated wines complement the fast‑served fare.

The concept gives Amex a differentiated product for time‑pressed travelers and could signal a shift toward smaller, high‑turnover lounges at busy hubs. If successful, the model may inspire similar micro‑lounges, enhancing cardholder value while optimizing airport real‑estate costs.

Original Description

Discover Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, American Express’ new speakeasy-style lounge in Las Vegas. With just 33 seats, no buffet, and a focus on shorter, more exclusive visits, this hidden gem redefines the airport lounge experience.

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