Tucked away in the Food Court of Terminal 3, next to Gate 76, is the newly-renamed United Club lounge. Geared towards United Customers flying domestically, it is within walking distance to gates 76-69 and convenient access via moving walkway to gates 80-90.

Signage to this United lounge is particularly poor post-security. However, it can be easily located by following the signs towards the “SFO Museum/Gallery” and proceeding down the vast hall with moving walkways located on either sides. At the end of the walkway, a the United Club will be immediately on your right, directly across from Just Desserts.

A ‘San Francisco’ entrance attempts to set the tone of the lounge before continuing down a long, elegant corridor to the concierge desk. I was greeted by two informative and cheerful United agents. WiFi access cards (provided by T-mobile) are obtained here. Multiple, large informative LCD screens display up-to-date flight information and there is a separate dedicated desk staffed with counter United agents for flight changes/upgrades.

The lounge is beautifully decorated in a nautical theme (an ode to San Francisco’s history) complete with a model clipper ship on display, nautical paintings, models, and an ornate marble nautical compass mosaic on the floor of the reception hall.

United Club is available to all Star Alliance Gold members, United Club members, as well as those traveling in United Global First, United First, United BusinessFirst and United Business with a valid boarding pass. Guests are not permitted for United BusinessFirst and United Business passengers. Membership and one-time passes are available as well. Passengers of other programs should double check to verify if they have access to United Club.

The Lounge:

Albeit a bit small given the sheer number of United customers it services during peak hours, it is a wonderful retreat from the hustle and bustle of passengers lounging around  Terminal 3. Seating was nearly full mid-afternoon and was very noisy given the sheer number of businessmen who were conducting last-minute business calls in front of the large windows that spanned the long lounge with views of the tarmac. Newspapers and televisions broadcasting cable news are strewn throughout the lounge for entertainment. Tables are bussed frequently, but not often enough given the high volume and traffic.

For those looking to catch a few zzz’s, read a book in silence, or simply in need of some solitude, a “Quiet room” located next to the business center is your best bet. While lying on lounge chairs are not permitted, it’s a great place to unwind and simply relax before your next United flight. This brightly lit room with natural lighting from the large windows is great for those looking to read or catch up on emails.

Food/Beverages

There are two beverage/snack centers located conveniently on either end of the lounge; however, the one located towards the reception desk is larger and offers a greater variety of beverages and snacks. During my afternoon visit, a healthy selection of snack packs were available including freeze-dried carrots with low-fat ranch dressing as well as pretzels, bananas, apples, monterey jack cheese, yogurt-covered chocolate raisins and other munchies. Self-serve machines offered a variety of juices, as well as an espresso machine offering decent cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and hot chocolates. Unfortunately, the espresso machine located adjacent to the business center was out of order during my visit.

Bar

This location offers a modest sized open bar offering a variety of wines, spirits and beers with the option of ordering food. It was a bit busy with a couple of customers. Unfortunately, there are no views of the tarmac from the bar.

Business Center

A quiet, professional business center is located adjacent to the Quiet Room at the far end of the lounge (near the bathrooms). Tastefully placed lounge chairs and workstations adorn the business center. There are countless desk cubicles along the wall and further back in a dedicated workplace center featuring powerports, LAN, and phone line. A conference room is available (advanced reservation required), as well as a multifunction fax/printer/copier.

Overall, for anyone with some time on their hands while flying domestically Terminal 3, I’d highly recommend using the United Club lounge in Terminal 3. However, it might be a good bet to try the United Club in the International Terminal (connected via bridge to Terminal 3) for something less crowded.