The United Polaris Lounge at Chicago O’Hare International Airport is located in Terminal 1, Concourse C, near Gate C18. This central location provides convenient access for passengers traveling on United Airlines’ international flights.
The lounge at O’Hare has been undergoing a major renovation and expansion project since September of this year, signaling United Airlines’ commitment to finally enhancing the experience at its largest hub. The entryway is undeniably grand, featuring the signature chandelier with stars and sleek granite countertops that have become hallmarks of Polaris Lounges.
Having visited the lounge a few times shortly before the renovations began, I debated whether to hold off on writing about it until the work was finished. However, since the lounge remains partially operational during the construction, I thought it was still worthwhile to share my impressions. Most of my visits were just before the last flight of the day (the 10pm departure to London) so it was almost empty.
It’s a very nice space, but could use some better seating toward the back which just seems like rows of lounge chairs.
One evening, having gone the entire day without eating, I headed to the dining room, where fortunately there was no wait.
The menu that night featured the following options:
I started off with a Diet Coke along with the roasted beet salad.
Next up I ordered the Everyone’s Mule mocktail as recommended by the server along with the creamy parmesan cavatappi. Cavatappi was ok, I can’t say I liked the mocktail at all.
I rounded out the meal with the sticky toffee pudding which was not warm at all and quite frankly didn’t taste anything like the original sticky toffee pudding with date sauce.
Overall, I couldn’t help but wish I had ordered two servings of the roasted beet salad—it was the standout of the meal. That said, the cavatappi was quite decent and enjoyable. It’s worth mentioning that a buffet is conveniently located near the entryway, but the offerings there are fairly underwhelming. You will go hungry if you are depending on the buffet to get your meal.
There is also iced tea and coffee located at two separate stations in the lounge.
Again it was before the last flight of the day so the lounge was empty, but in my experience this is usually not the case despite it being dedicated for Polaris passengers.
Restrooms are located to the left side as soon as you enter the lounge and are individual gender neutral restrooms. I always enjoy the way United lights these corridors with small lights resembling stars.
Showers are available in the lounge, but I didn’t get the chance to use them so I can’t comment on their condition as of late.
Bottom Line:
The United Polaris Lounge in Chicago is decent but not particularly remarkable. I still prefer premium credit card lounges for their superior food and amenities. That said, I’m looking forward to the lounge renovations, as the expanded space will be a welcome improvement for United Polaris customers. The current crowding is unacceptable for paying customers. While the Chicago lounge is far better than the Newark location, it still struggles with crowding. Unfortunately, it seems things might have to get worse before they improve. I wouldn’t go out of my way to get to the airport beforehand to visit this lounge. The Delta SkyClub T5 is still my favorite lounge at Chicago O’Hare.
For latest details on the renovation check this Flyertalk thread.
