Plaza Premium Opens First Australian Domestic Lounge In Adelaide

Plaza Premium has officially opened its first Australian domestic lounge at Adelaide Airport, creating a new lounge option for travellers who want comfort without airline status. It’s the first of its kind in the country, and doubles as a proof of concept, with Plaza Premium hoping to open more domestic lounges across Australia.

Access starts at $29 for a two-hour ‘Lite’ package, which includes unlimited food and basic drinks. The ‘Standard’ package adds access to alcoholic beverages and costs $48.60. It’s not a bad deal, considering two glasses of Prosecco and a Ceaser salad at the nearby ADL Grounds Bar costs $48. Meanwhile, Virgin Australia charges $65 for walk-in access to its Adelaide Lounge.

Like other Plaza Premium Lounges, American Express Platinum cardholders receive complimentary access with two guests. Priority Pass and DragonPass lounge membership programs are also accepted.

You’ll find the Plaza Premium Adelaide Domestic within the main terminal near Gate 16, with the space currently open daily from 5am to 8pm. This lounge complements Plaza Premium’s existing international lounge at Adelaide Airport, which opened in August 2023.

Plaza Premium Founder, Song Hoi-See, highlighted the group’s aim to enhance the journey for every passenger through their new lounge.

“The debut of Australia’s first independent domestic airport lounge in Adelaide is a defining moment for Plaza Premium Group…We are deeply committed to expanding premium, accessible lounge experiences, and Adelaide’s impressive aviation growth made it the natural choice for this launch.”

Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox, echoed the positivity.

“This lounge will attract a wide range of customers, from business travellers, families and those heading off on holidays, by offering a quiet and comfortable sanctuary moments from the vibrancy of a busy airport. It perfectly complements Plaza Premium’s international lounge, offering a seamless and connected experience for everyone.”

First Look: Plaza Premium Adelaide Domestic

The new Adelaide lounge is a modest space, with seating for around 70 travellers. Neutral tones, varied textures and warm lighting give the lounge a cosy feel, with most of the floor space dedicated to restaurant-style seating. The white-marble tables paired with soft leather chairs feel premium, with more relaxed seating lining the windows, and a quieter nook tucked around the corner. The position of the lounge means views are of the valet drop-off zone and Atura Hotel, so you won’t see any aircraft.

The buffet is found on one side and boasts a feature pizza kitchen, which even offers egg and bacon pizza for breakfast. Catering was pretty impressive at the grand opening, including sandwiches, sliders, spring rolls, and charcoal bao buns and a number of impressive desserts. Day-to-day, guests can expect a salad station and a few hot dishes that change with the seasons.

As you’d hope in a South Australian lounge, the wine lineup is strong. Tatachilla and Grant Burge dominate the list, giving guests a genuine taste of local producers. Travellers with alcoholic beverages included in their package receive a four-stamp drink voucher - a system designed to help staff manage responsible service. We’re told well-behaved guests can request additional vouchers, so it’s a flexible arrangement rather than a hard limit.

Amenities are lacking, with no showers or bathrooms. The nearest facilities are directly across from the lounge reception. Power points are available along the windows and at the high tables, though many seats are out of easy reach.

Summing Up: Our Take

Plaza Premium’s Adelaide Domestic Lounge is well-executed and comfortable. For those without airline lounge access, it’s a great option to have and represents solid value over terminal dining options. More importantly, it’s an important proof of concept that will hopefully lead to the introduction of more independent domestic lounges nationwide.