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If you’ve visited an American Express Centurion Lounge before, you probably know what to expect: quality food, complimentary drinks, comfortable seating, and often a crowded environment during peak travel periods.
During a recent trip through Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), my wife and I decided to visit the newly opened Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, and the experience was noticeably different from a traditional Centurion Lounge visit—in a very good way.
While Sidecar doesn’t replace the full Centurion Lounge experience, it offers something that many travelers may actually prefer: a more intimate, service-focused atmosphere.
Sidecar is located near the D Gates at Harry Reid International Airport and is operated by American Express as an extension of its Centurion Lounge brand.
Unlike the larger Centurion Lounges many travelers are familiar with, Sidecar occupies a much smaller footprint. At first glance, that may seem like a disadvantage. However, after spending time there, I realized that the smaller size is actually one of its biggest strengths.
The moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels less like an airport lounge and more like an upscale cocktail lounge or boutique restaurant.
The biggest difference between Sidecar and a traditional Centurion Lounge is the level of service.
In most Centurion Lounges, guests serve themselves from the buffet and visit the bar to order drinks. Sidecar takes a completely different approach.
After being seated, we had a dedicated staff member assigned to our table who took our food and drink orders just like you would experience in a sit-down restaurant. Everything was brought directly to us, creating a much more relaxed and premium feeling experience.
Our waitress was absolutely fantastic throughout our visit. She checked in regularly, answered questions about the menu, and ensured our drinks were always topped off. The service felt attentive without being intrusive, and it elevated the entire lounge experience.
For frequent travelers who appreciate hospitality and personalized service, this alone makes Sidecar stand out from the standard airport lounge model.
The food presentation was impressive and felt much more curated than what you’d typically find at a self-serve buffet.
During our visit, we ordered sandwiches served on branded buns featuring custom artwork, along with fresh salads. Everything arrived directly to our table and was beautifully presented.
The cocktail menu and beverage service also reinforced the upscale lounge concept. Rather than standing in line at a crowded bar, guests can simply order from their seats and have drinks delivered.
It’s a small detail, but it significantly improves the overall experience.
One aspect of Sidecar that really impressed me was the décor.
The lounge features rich green tile accents, marble finishes, warm lighting, comfortable seating, and abundant greenery throughout the space. The design feels modern, sophisticated, and intentionally crafted to create a relaxing environment away from the busy terminal.
The curved seating areas and lounge-style layout make the space feel inviting despite its smaller size.
In many ways, Sidecar feels more exclusive than a traditional Centurion Lounge simply because of its intimate setting.
Not necessarily.
If you’re looking for expansive seating areas, multiple buffet stations, private workspaces, or family-friendly amenities, a full Centurion Lounge will likely be a better fit.
However, if you’re looking for a quieter environment, attentive service, handcrafted food and beverages, and a more personalized experience, Sidecar excels.
The smaller footprint allows staff to provide a level of hospitality that would be difficult to replicate in a much larger lounge environment.
The new Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge at Harry Reid International Airport offers something unique in the airport lounge space.
While it may not have the size or amenities of a traditional Centurion Lounge, it delivers a more intimate, service-oriented experience that feels closer to dining at a high-end restaurant than visiting an airport lounge.
The personalized table service, excellent staff, thoughtfully designed interior, and elevated atmosphere made this one of the most enjoyable lounge experiences I’ve had at an airport.
If you’re traveling through Las Vegas and have access, Sidecar is absolutely worth a visit.
For travelers who value service and atmosphere over size, Sidecar may actually be the better experience. It’s a refreshing take on what an airport lounge can be and a welcome addition to the American Express lounge portfolio.
📷 All photos featured in this article were taken by Brandon Archambault
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Editorial note: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of any bank, credit card company, airline, or hotel chain. None of these organizations have reviewed, approved, or endorsed the content in any way.
Legal and Financial Advice Disclosure: Credit Mileage is not a law firm, and this article is not intended to provide legal or financial advice. This information is meant purely for educational purposes. We strive to offer accurate and up-to-date information, but it is not a substitute for professional financial or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney or financial advisor before making any decisions regarding your financial situation.
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