Food and Drink Prices at the Centurion Lounge, Terminal 2, Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

The Centurion Lounge in Terminal 2 of Mexico City International Airport (MEX) offers a premium, restaurant-style experience that differs significantly from the typical buffet-style airport lounges. This unique approach includes a sit-down menu and waiter service, providing a more upscale and personalized dining atmosphere. However, the pricing structure for food and drinks varies depending on the type of American Express card held by the guest, leading to some nuances in what is complimentary and what incurs additional charges.

Access and Eligibility

Access to the Centurion Lounge is primarily determined by the type of American Express card you hold. The following categories outline the different levels of access and associated benefits:

1. American Express Platinum Card (Personal)

   Holders of the Personal Platinum Card enjoy complimentary access to both food and drinks. This includes a variety of menu items and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

2. American Express Centurion Card (Black Card)

   Centurion cardholders also receive complimentary food and drinks, consistent with the premium benefits associated with this exclusive card.

3. American Express Business Platinum Card

   While Business Platinum cardholders can access the lounge, they are required to pay for food items. However, drinks are complimentary for all eligible cardholders, regardless of card type.

4. American Express Platinum Aeroméxico Card

   Similar to Business Platinum cardholders, those with the Platinum Aeroméxico Card must pay for food items. Drinks, however, remain complimentary.

Food Menu and Pricing

The Centurion Lounge offers a diverse menu with a range of dishes catering to various tastes. The menu includes appetizers, main courses, and desserts, all prepared to order and served by waitstaff. While specific prices for each item are not publicly listed and can vary, the following details provide a comprehensive overview of the menu options and general pricing structure:

Breakfast Options

• Eggs with bacon or sausage
• Chilaquiles (a traditional Mexican breakfast dish)
• Pancakes or waffles
• Fresh fruit and yogurt

Pricing for Breakfast Items:

• Prices generally range from MXN 150 to MXN 300 (approximately USD 8–16) per dish.
• Example: Pancakes with syrup and fruit – MXN 200 (approximately USD 11).

Lunch and Dinner Options

• Tacos (varieties include beef, chicken, and vegetarian options)
• Burgers with side dishes
• Salads (e.g., Caesar salad, mixed greens)
• Pasta dishes
• Soups (e.g., tortilla soup)

Pricing for Lunch and Dinner Items:

• Prices generally range from MXN 200 to MXN 500 (approximately USD 11–27) per dish.
• Example: Tacos (3 pieces) – MXN 250 (approximately USD 14).
• Example: Gourmet burger with fries – MXN 400 (approximately USD 22).

Desserts

• Flan
• Chocolate cake
• Seasonal fruit

Pricing for Desserts:

• Prices generally range from MXN 100 to MXN 200 (approximately USD 5–11).
• Example: Flan – MXN 150 (approximately USD 8).

Pricing Structure for Food

• Personal Platinum and Centurion Cardholders: All food items are complimentary.

• Business Platinum and Platinum Aeroméxico Cardholders: Food items must be paid for. Prices are displayed on the menu and are comparable to those of mid-range airport restaurants.

Beverage Availability and Pricing

The Centurion Lounge offers a wide variety of beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Drinks are complimentary for all eligible cardholders, regardless of the type of card used for entry.

Alcoholic Beverages

• Wine: A selection of red and white wines, including Mexican and international options. For example, the lounge offers several red wine options, including a Spanish wine.

• Beer: Various types of beer are available.

• Spirits and Cocktails: A range of spirits and cocktails are available upon request, such as margaritas and mojitos.

Pricing for Alcoholic Beverages (for those who must pay):

• Wine: MXN 200 to MXN 400 (approximately USD 11–22) per glass.
• Beer: MXN 150 to MXN 250 (approximately USD 8–14) per bottle.
• Cocktails: MXN 300 to MXN 500 (approximately USD 16–27) per drink.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

• Soft drinks
• Coffee
• Tea
• Juices
• Bottled water

Pricing for Non-Alcoholic Beverages (for those who must pay):

• Soft drinks and bottled water: MXN 50 to MXN 100 (approximately USD 3–5).
• Coffee and tea: MXN 100 to MXN 150 (approximately USD 5–8).

Pricing Structure for Beverages

• All Eligible Cardholders: All beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are complimentary.

Additional Fees and Tips

Service Charges

No additional service charges are applied to the complimentary food and drinks for eligible cardholders. However, visitors who are required to pay for food (e.g., Business Platinum and Platinum Aeroméxico cardholders) will be charged based on the menu prices.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated by the staff. It is customary for travelers to leave tips in cash, either in USD or Mexican Pesos (MXN). Tips are a gesture of gratitude for the service provided.

Service and Wait Times

The Centurion Lounge operates with a full-service restaurant model, which has both advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages

• High-Quality Food and Drinks: The food and drinks are of superior quality compared to typical airport lounge offerings.

• Personalized Service: Waitstaff attend to each table, providing a more personalized and upscale experience.

• Relaxed Atmosphere: The lounge offers a more relaxed and upscale atmosphere compared to buffet-style lounges.

Disadvantages

• Wait Times: Wait times can be significant during peak hours. Some users have reported waiting up to an hour for food to arrive after ordering. This is an important consideration for travelers with tight schedules.

• Crowded Atmosphere: The lounge can feel crowded, especially during busy travel times, which may detract from the experience for those seeking a quiet space.

Additional Amenities

In addition to food and drinks, the Centurion Lounge offers several amenities to enhance the travel experience:

Spa Services

• Complimentary 15-minute massages are available for Platinum and Centurion cardholders.

• Availability is limited, and reservations are recommended upon arrival.

Workspaces

• Booths and tables with power outlets are available for working travelers.

Wi-Fi

• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the lounge.

Family Room

• A dedicated space for families traveling with children.

Restrooms and Showers

• Unlike some other Centurion Lounges, the one in Terminal 2 does not offer restrooms or showers within the lounge itself.

Comparisons to Other Lounges

The Centurion Lounge in Terminal 2 is often compared to other airport lounges in the region, such as the Aeroméxico Salon Premier Lounge. Visitors generally find the Centurion Lounge to be a superior option due to its higher-quality food and more personalized service. However, the restaurant-style setup and lack of self-service facilities may not appeal to those who prefer the convenience of traditional buffet-style lounges.

Key Takeaways

• Complimentary Benefits: Complimentary food and drinks are available only to Personal Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Business Platinum and Platinum Aeroméxico cardholders must pay for food, but drinks are included for all visitors.

• Menu Pricing: Prices for food items are displayed on the menu for transparency. While specific amounts can vary, they are reportedly similar to those of mid-range airport restaurants. Breakfast items range from MXN 150 to MXN 300 (USD 8–16), lunch and dinner items from MXN 200 to MXN 500 (USD 11–27), and desserts from MXN 100 to MXN 200 (USD 5–11).

• Service Style: The lounge operates on a waiter-service model, which enhances the dining experience but may result in longer wait times for food.

• Beverage Policy: All beverages, including alcoholic options, are complimentary for all eligible cardholders.

• Tipping: While not required, tipping is appreciated and can be done in local or foreign currency.

Sources

1. Another Excuse to Travel
2. The Mexico City Airport
3. Eye of the Flyer
4. Lounge Review
5. Reddit Discussions
6. Reddit Discussion on Extra Charges for Food at Centurion Lounge CDMX

Conclusion

The Centurion Lounge in Terminal 2 of Mexico City International Airport offers a premium dining experience with a sit-down menu and waiter service. While food and drinks are complimentary for Personal Platinum and Centurion cardholders, other cardholders may incur charges for food items. The lounge's unique setup and high-quality offerings make it a standout option for travelers, but visitors should be aware of the potential costs and service times when planning their visit. The lounge provides a luxurious and convenient experience, making it a worthwhile stop for eligible travelers seeking high-quality food, drinks, and additional amenities like spa services and workspaces.