After our lovely visit to Newark’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in February, I was totally excited to visit Virgin’s Clubhouse at the Johannesburg, South Africa International Airport. In fact, it was the only thing getting me through the depression of going home, LOL.

ENTRANCE TO THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE.

Despite a number of lounge options in Johannesburg’s international terminal between Priority Pass and our American Express Plaitnum card, we heard that the Virgin Clubhouse was the nicest and went promptly there (after a little shopping in the Out of Africa shop!). The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is located on the second floor of the international terminal, just a bit further down from the aforementioned Out of Africa store. We took the elevator up. Checkin was quick and consisted of presenting an American Express Platinum card and boarding passes. I particularly loved the flower wall at the entrance.

THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE SPACE.

Unlike Newark’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Johannesburg’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is much less 70s-chic and much more modern chic, with a bit of Africa flair. The lounge is quite small, but we easily found a seat right away. The lounge is set up in a rectangular shape, with groupings of chairs and tables leading up to a grand bar, which is GORGEOUS, and a kitchen preparing delicious made-to-order food, no buffet here!  There is also a second floor, which is more of a tiny loft that would be good for one party to catch a nap or rest between flights. We took a quick look and there was one person resting there during our visit.

We set up at a table so that we could order food and drinks. The table was spacious and the chairs were comfy. And, importantly, there were plenty of electrical outlets around to charge our things. While I prefer a runway review, due to the lounge’s location, views are limited to the terminal below and parked planes.

THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE FOOD.

Immediately upon siting down, a lovely waitress came over with food and drink menus, which were actual, proper menus! Oh, how I have missed real menus! The menu was larger than expected, and certainly larger than Newark’s, and had a selection of starters, mains, and desserts, as well as a children’s menu.

We had not had lunch, so we were pretty hungry. Food from the menu is unlimited and comes out quickly, so we ordered a few things. For starters, Dan opted for the Mint Pea Soup and I the halloumi.  Both appetizers were excellent, especially the honey mustard dressing served with the halloumi cheese.

The main course was a ridiculously good fried chicken sandwich for Dan and the trio of veggie burgers for me. Both were served with chips (i.e. french fries). Admittedly, I mis-ordered here. While the trio of sliders were very good, the fried chicken sandwich was absolutely delicious! I liked it so much, I ordered a side of chicken tendies. The french fries were also very good.

We skipped dessert because we were quite full at this point.

THE DRINKS AT THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE.

In addition to food, we also ordered drinks, duh! There was a pretty decent list to choose from, including red, white and sparking wine, cocktails, beers, and some fun non-alcoholic beverages. We tried some wines and cocktails. All were very good. The waitress also continuously re-filled our wine glass without even asking – a very nice touch!

OTHER AMENITIES IN THE VIRGIN ATLANTIC CLUBHOUSE.

Hidden from the remainder of the lounge, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse has restrooms and showers behind the kitchen area.  Wifi was also available and worked well.

STEAL OUR LOUNGE

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Johannesburg, South Africa:  Located on the mezzanine level of the international retail area within international departures, after airport security. We received complimentary access via our American Express Platinum cards.