The Sunken Lounge

- Queens, NY 11430

Welcome to The Sunken Lounge, an iconic bar experience that transports New Yorkers and travelers alike back to the glamorous '60s. Located within the heart of the landmark TWA Hotel's Flight Center at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport in Queens, NY, this venue is more than just a bar—it’s a piece of living history. The Sunken Lounge perfectly captures the spirit of the Jet Age, offering a stylish, immersive retreat where crowds once gathered to watch legends like The Beatles arrive in the United States. It's a professional and friendly spot known for its fast service and commitment to serving great cocktails in a truly unforgettable setting.

Stepping into the lounge, situated on the lower level of the Eero Saarinen-designed terminal head house, is an immediate journey back in time. The meticulous restoration has preserved the authentic mid-century modern aesthetic, featuring plush upholstered benches, original white penny tile, and the signature Chili Pepper Red carpet. Above, the famous Solari di Udine split-flap departures board clatters with a nostalgic charm, displaying messages and destinations that anchor the experience in aviation history. Whether you’re a New York resident looking for an unparalleled local destination bar or a traveler in transit, The Sunken Lounge promises an elevated and unique experience.

The Sunken Lounge is uniquely situated at the TWA Hotel, the only on-airport hotel at JFK International Airport. Its address in Queens, NY 11430, places it right within the bustling airport environment. For local users in the New York region, the location is best reached by utilizing the AirTrain to connect to JFK Terminal 5. While accessing an airport location can involve a bit of a walk from the AirTrain station, especially if you are carrying luggage, the experience is universally considered worth the minor inconvenience. The TWA Hotel, and by extension The Sunken Lounge, is directly connected to Terminal 5 of the airport.

For those using public transportation, the JFK AirTrain connects to major New York City subway and commuter rail lines. New Yorkers can take the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) to Jamaica or the MTA Subway's E, J, or Z lines to the Jamaica Center–Parsons/Archer station, or the A line to the Howard Beach–JFK Airport station, and then transfer to the AirTrain. While located at the airport, it has become a destination in its own right for locals seeking an architectural marvel and a great cocktail.

In terms of physical access, The Sunken Lounge and the surrounding TWA Hotel are committed to accessibility. The venue features both a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible restroom, making it a welcoming choice for all patrons in New York.

The Sunken Lounge, operating as a professional and fully-stocked bar, provides a range of essential services and offerings.

• Full-service bar offering a wide array of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, hard liquor, and specialized cocktails.
• Dine-in service in the iconic sunken conversation pit and surrounding areas.
• Takeout service options available for those on the go or preferring to enjoy their refreshments elsewhere in the hotel.
• Elevated bar food and light bites designed to complement the cocktail menu.
• Acceptance of major credit cards and debit cards for convenient payment.
• Accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for larger parties or during peak tourist times. Walk-ins are also welcome.

This Queens bar is celebrated throughout New York for its distinct features that elevate it far beyond a typical hotel or airport lounge. Its unique atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a must-visit destination.

• Great Cocktails: The bar specializes in both classic and original signature cocktails, all presented with professional flair, often garnished with swizzle sticks modeled after TWA’s original in-flight designs. The menu features mid-century favorites like the Aviation and Old Fashioned alongside unique, themed options like the The Sunken Lounge Martini and Paper Plane.
• Fast Service: Patrons consistently praise the fast and efficient service, a welcome feature for both locals with limited time and busy travelers. The professional staff ensures a high-quality experience without unnecessary delay.
• Iconic Mid-Century Modern Design: Located within the historically preserved Eero Saarinen-designed TWA Flight Center, the bar's aesthetic is a stunning example of 1960s architectural glamour. The "conversation pit" seating area is a world-famous design highlight.
• Solari Split-Flap Board: A centerpiece of the space is the fully restored authentic Solari di Udine departures board, which constantly clicks and updates, providing an atmospheric soundscape and visual nod to the Jet Age.
• View of "Connie": The lounge offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Lockheed Constellation "Connie" L-1649A Starliner, a vintage 1958 aircraft parked just outside on the tarmac, which itself operates as a separate cocktail lounge.
• Ambiance and Crowd: The atmosphere is lively and engaging, often drawing a crowd of tourists and design enthusiasts, creating a buzzing, destination-worthy environment.
• Amenities: Patrons can enjoy clean, accessible restrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi access, perfect for catching up on work or sharing photos of the stunning location.

For New York residents looking to visit this one-of-a-kind Queens establishment, here is the necessary contact and location information:

• Address: TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, Queens, NY 11430, USA
• Phone: (212) 806-9000
• Mobile Phone: +1 212-806-9000

For anyone in the New York metropolitan area, The Sunken Lounge is a destination worth choosing for reasons extending far beyond its excellent drinks. It offers an unparalleled combination of professional service, historical significance, and a truly transportive ambiance. You are not simply having a drink; you are participating in a preserved slice of New York and aviation history. The commitment to crafting high-quality beverages, evidenced by the menu's range of classic cocktails like the Negroni, Old Fashioned, and Margarita, ensures that the quality of the drink matches the quality of the setting. While New York is known for its high prices, visitors understand that the premium here pays for an experience that is impossible to replicate elsewhere—the chance to sit in the mother of all conversation pits, watch the mesmerizing split-flap board, and enjoy a drink while gazing at a magnificent 1950s airliner. The convenience of fast service and the welcoming, professional atmosphere make this bar a high-value choice for a memorable outing or a productive stopover. Whether you're an architecture buff, an aviation enthusiast, or simply a New Yorker seeking a glamorous escape, The Sunken Lounge delivers a premium, fact-filled, and thoroughly enjoyable experience.

The Sunken Lounge

Queens, NY 11430, USA