Posted on July 22, 2025

Hello, fellow travelers! As someone who’s logged countless miles in the skies, I’ve seen my fair share of airport lounges—from the basic to the borderline extravagant. But nothing quite prepared me for the sheer bliss of the Cathay Pacific Lounge at The Pier, tucked away near Gate 65 at Hong Kong International Airport. On July 19, 2025, during a layover after arriving from Kaohsiung en route to San Francisco (SFO), I was granted early access a generous 3.5 hours before my flight. This extra time turned what could have been a mundane wait into a rejuvenating mini-vacation. If you’re eligible for entry (think business class, elite status, or lounge passes), this place is a must-visit. Let me dive deeper into why this lounge left such a lasting impression, complete with details from my snapshots and personal reflections.

Arrival and Overall Ambiance

Stepping into The Pier felt like entering a high-end spa crossed with a gourmet retreat. The lounge spans a vast area, cleverly segmented to offer variety without feeling overwhelming. Dim, warm lighting from pendant lamps creates an intimate, calming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a flight. The decor is modern and minimalist, with dark wood tones, green tiled walls, and sleek black furniture that exudes sophistication. Everything was spotlessly clean, from the floors to the fixtures, which is a huge plus in a high-traffic airport environment.

One thing that stood out immediately was the thoughtful layout. It’s not just a single room but a series of interconnected spaces, each designed for a specific mood or activity. Whether you’re craving food, a drink, or some quiet rest, there’s a dedicated zone for it. This segmentation makes the lounge feel expansive and personalized, far removed from the chaos of the terminal outside.

The Culinary Delights: From Breakfast to Snacks

Food is often the highlight of any lounge, and The Pier delivers in spades. I began in the western breakfast section, where the offerings were fresh and inviting. Think flaky croissants, seasonal fruits like oranges neatly arranged, and hearty options such as eggs or sausages to fuel up for the day.

Moving on, the cocktail bar caught my eye with its polished setup and array of premium spirits and mixers. Even though it was morning, I couldn’t resist peeking at the menu—classic cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options galore. I got a non-alcoholic Signature Cathay drink and sat in the corner for a bit. It’s the kind of bar where you could easily while away an hour chatting or people-watching.

The noodle bar was next, and it lived up to its reputation. Freshly prepared bowls of noodles with customizable toppings provided a comforting, authentic Asian touch. I got a few items to try out, such as the Tomato broth rice vermicelli, egg white and vegetable fried rice, siu mai, and crispy pork with rice. The aromas alone were enough to make my mouth water as I savored every bite.

But the real gem for me was the tea room, a serene oasis that felt like a step into a traditional teahouse with a modern twist. The back wall was lined with an impressive grid of glass jars, each filled with different teas—likely a mix of green, black, oolong, and herbal varieties, illuminated softly to highlight their contents. A bartender (or should I say tea master?) was on hand, expertly pouring and serving. In front of the counter, a long black table displayed an assortment of complementary snacks, artfully arranged to tempt any passerby. I opted for the green juice to detox from all the eating I did after my Asia trip.

Everything was presented with white napkins, forks, and small signs, adding to the refined presentation. The overall setup screamed attention to detail, with stacks of plates and bowls below for self-service convenience.

I spent a good chunk of time here, sipping on a signature jasmine tea and green juice. The flavors were subtle yet satisfying, and the quiet hum of the lounge made it an ideal spot for reflection or light reading.

Beyond Eating: Relaxation and Amenities

After indulging in the food sections, I ventured to the back for some downtime. The relaxation/sleeping area was a haven of tranquility, featuring several dozen lie-flat couches or daybeds, each semi-private and equipped with soft blankets and pillows. Dim lighting and noise-dampening design made it easy to catch a power nap, which was exactly what I needed after my incoming flight.

No lounge review would be complete without mentioning the bathrooms—they were super clean, modern, and spa-like, with high-end toiletries, spacious showers, and even fresh towels. It felt more like a five-star hotel than an airport facility, which elevated the entire experience.

Why This Lounge Stands Out

What sets The Pier apart isn’t just the amenities; it’s the holistic experience. The variety of sections ensures there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re a foodie, a nap enthusiast, or just need a quiet corner to work. The early access policy was a game-changer for my layover, turning potential boredom into pure enjoyment. I left feeling refreshed and almost reluctant to board my flight to SFO. If I had more time, I would’ve explored every nook, perhaps trying a cocktail or lingering longer in the tea room.

In a world of rushed travels, lounges like this remind us that the journey can be as rewarding as the destination. If you’re passing through Hong Kong Airport, prioritize The Pier—it’s the best lounge I’ve ever visited, hands down.

Safe travels!