The newest lounge at DCA isn't a lounge at all: What to know about the Capital One Landing

It's not quite a lounge. Capital One is calling it a Landing.

Really, it’s an airport restaurant where the food is free (for Capital One Venture X cardholders), and every table has a power outlet.

Capital One had been scouting Washington’s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) for a while, so when the opportunity came to bid for a space, they reimagined what was previously a security screening area into a modern airport restaurant. The Capital One Landing was designed in collaboration with world-renowned Chef José Andrés and aims to go beyond the typical airport lounge or grab-and-go eatery.

The 5,500-square-foot space, located in National Hall, Terminal 2 (both terminals at DCA are connected past security), offers travelers a relaxed José Andrés restaurant experience in the middle of a bustling airport environment. Part of the Landing sits directly on the concourse, open to the passing crowds.

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Following its launch, Capital One plans to introduce a similar concept at New York's LaGuardia Airport, expanding a growing network that includes other locations with more traditional lounges like those at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Denver International Airport (DEN).

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“If you build it, they will come,” Capital One's Head of Airport Experiences, Programs and Partnerships David Borowik, told USA TODAY during a press preview of the space. Recognizing that Reagan National is primarily a departure airport with quick turnarounds, the Landing at DCA centers on travelers who are more focused on grabbing food and have little time to lounge.

“Most people are looking for a quick bite to eat or a space to sit, recharge, and maybe download an article off of USA TODAY or a movie,” Borowik explained. This focus shaped the approach where a short stay "doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality," thanks to a menu designed to be both efficient and top-tier.

Capital One Landing at DCA offers an exclusive tapas menu curated by Chef Andrés, featuring dishes like pan con tomate, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and croquetas, a selection inspired by Andrés' restaurant concept, The Bazaar. The quality of the food tasted like that of any Andrés restaurant.

For those with limited time, Andrés crafted a menu emphasizing speed and flavor. Borowik said that "the shrimp is very fast to cook, literally 60 seconds to plate and serve." This efficiency, combined with “authentic ingredients sourced directly from Spain,” ensures the flavors are of higher caliber than a regular lounge buffet.

Capital One hopes to “surprise and delight” with interactive elements, including a morning mimosa cart with various juices, an afternoon cheesecake cart, and a gin and tonic cart inspired by local Washington cocktail culture.

Travelers can head to the counter for a selection of cheeses, cold cuts, desserts, coffee and drinks, or use a QR code to order hot food directly to their seat.

Jenn Scheurich, head of Capital One Travel and retail experience, said she hopes travelers get what they desire in “less than five minutes.” She added that patrons can order their favorite tapas, be served promptly, and still make it to their gate with time to spare.

For those on the go, Capital One is introducing “On the Fly,” an à la carte, quick-service option. Featuring breakfast items, sandwiches and salads prepared by Andrés' team, it allows travelers to grab a meal “at cost” thanks to a 50% discount for Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders.

“That’s one of the biggest draws,” Borowik added. “At 50% off, you’re getting something at cost – an option for travelers who might land late and just want to head home with a quality meal.”

How to get into the Capital One Landing

The Landing offers a tiered access model: Venture X cardholders enjoy unlimited complimentary access, while other Capital One cardholders and non-cardholders can enter at varying rates, from $45 to $90. Kids under two can accompany eligible cardholders for free, a benefit aimed at easing travel for families.

◾ Venture X cardholders: Complimentary access for the cardholder and a guest. Additional guests at $45.

◾ Venture and Spark Miles cardholders: Can purchase entry at $45.

◾ All other cardholders and non-cardholders: Can purchase entry at $90.

Keep in mind that space is limited. Travelers can make reservations, as they would for any restaurant, ahead of time or check whether there’s space for walk-ins.

All travelers, whether they have a Capital One card or not, can purchase items from the "On the Fly" section. Venture X cardholders get 50% off their purchases there.

Josh Rivera is USA TODAY's Travel Editor.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What to know about the Capital One Landing, how to get in