Phê Vé
May 4, 2026 • 3 min read
Discover the United Polaris Lounge at San Francisco (SFO) with useful information about access rules, ambiance, dining options, and tips for Vietnamese travelers.
Introduction to the United Polaris Lounge
The United Polaris Lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) stands out as one of the premier lounges for United Airlines' business class passengers and those flying with Star Alliance partners. Open for five years now, this lounge still captivates visitors, although there have been some recent changes to access rules.
New Access Rules
The biggest update since my last review is the new access policy. Passengers with a "basic" Polaris business class ticket will no longer be allowed entry to this lounge. Additionally, many business class travelers from Star Alliance airlines are also restricted from accessing the Polaris Lounge, leading to some discontent within the community.
So, who can enter the lounge now? Only Polaris business class passengers (including those on premium connecting flights to Newark - EWR and long-haul routes) with tickets purchased through standard, flexible, or mileage systems are permitted. Importantly, guests are not allowed to accompany these travelers.
Lounge Ambiance
Upon entering the lounge, you'll find a modern space that can often be crowded, especially near the bar and buffet areas. However, the lower level remains relatively quiet, making it ideal for those seeking a private space to work or relax.
There are plenty of seating options and dedicated restrooms available. The lounge features six fully equipped restrooms, which you can request to use. This is incredibly convenient before embarking on long flights.
Culinary Experience in the Lounge
The dining options at the United Polaris Lounge are diverse and plentiful. You can enjoy hot dishes, fresh salads, and regional specialties. The buffet area is rich with offerings such as ginger ramen, basmati brown rice, and a select menu at the restaurant.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
My favorite part of the lounge is the restaurant, which offers à la carte dining. However, during peak hours, the wait time for a table can range from 45 to 90 minutes. While waiting, enjoying a handcrafted cappuccino from the barista is a delightful experience.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
If you're planning to visit the United Polaris Lounge at SFO, there are some important details to keep in mind. To access the lounge, you must have a Polaris business class ticket or a ticket from a Star Alliance partner airline, with the requirement that you are flying from or connecting through SFO.
Moreover, for travelers coming from Vietnam, flights to SFO typically depart from major airports like Tan Son Nhat (SGN) or Noi Bai (HAN), with a flight duration of approximately 15-16 hours. The ideal time to fly to San Francisco is from September to November when the weather is pleasant and there is less rain.
In terms of cost, a business class ticket from Vietnam to San Francisco can range from 30 million to 50 million VND, depending on the time of booking. Be sure to keep an eye on airline promotions for opportunities to save on fares.
Finally, if you need to find flights or more detailed information, remember to check reputable booking sites like PheVe.vn, which provide a variety of options tailored to your needs and budget.
The United Polaris Lounge at SFO is an ideal stop for those looking to unwind before a long flight, but be prepared for some waiting time if you want to enjoy the dining services there.
This article is based on and edited from: Live and Let's Fly
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