Amex Shutters is another Centurion Lounge location, adding a new coffee bar

Out with the old and new at the American Express Centurion Lounge in New York.

Over the holidays, Amex officially closed the Equinox Body Lab in its lounge at John F. Kennedy’s International Airport (JFK) in New York, TPG learned exclusively and was later confirmed by a company spokesperson.

Replacing the space formerly dedicated to the Equinox Lab is a new full-service coffee bar, called Blue Roast by American Express.

Amex didn’t share why it’s switching from this health-focused service, but it could mean the issuer’s relationship with Equinox has ended or it wasn’t as popular as the issuer had originally hoped when the lounge launched in 2020.

Meanwhile, the coffee bar will surely be a hit with flyers, especially since all drinks will be available on a complimentary basis.

In fact, JFK is now the second Centurion Lounge location with a dedicated coffee bar. American Express’ Blue Roast debuted at the newly renovated Centurion Lounge and moved to Seattle.

At the bar, you can order a variety of espresso drinks, cold drinks and special seasonal coffee drinks. In addition, smoothies and other healthy options, such as avocado toast and chia pudding, will be available.

No other Centurion Lounge services are being changed as part of the move, although the carrier closed all of its lounges last year as a way to add more passenger seats.

While gyms and spas are no doubt fun to have, they create a potential bottleneck for flyers as they take up space in busy lounges that often operate with waiting lists.

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Instead of using up valuable lounge space for these facilities, Amex seems to think it would be better to maximize the space in each lounge with the most sought-after amenities, such as a coffee bar and additional seating.

Spas and fitness rooms are not large enough to accommodate many guests, and they require expensive facilities, such as specialized equipment and additional staff.

When it opened, JFK’s Amex lounge became a hot spot for expats. (The Atlanta location has since taken that title.) The Centurion Lounge at JFK has two levels and even includes a speakeasy-style hidden bar, two buffets and more.

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer pristine views, and the lounge offers a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of one of JFK’s busiest areas.

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