I had a seven hour layover at Shanghai’s Pudong Airport, and like many seasoned travellers, I opted to spend it in an airport lounge, specifically, the VIP Lounge 39. Operated by Plaza Premium, it also serves as the designated lounge for Air France, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air.

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While entry was on the pricier side (RMB650 / AUD140 for four hours), I just couldn’t imagine enduring seven hours in the crowded gate area while constantly forking out for food and drinks. Usually, I weigh up the cost of lounge access against what I’d likely spend in the terminal, however, in this case, the numbers didn’t quite balance. That said, the real value came in the form of peace, quiet, and a comfortable space to recharge. And for me, that was worth every cent, oh, and the food was pretty good!

The lounge, situated in Terminal One at Shanghai Pudong Airport, is part of a row of premium lounges catering to international travellers. Conveniently located near key departure gates, it offers easy access for those flying with major airlines. Its placement among other well known lounges creates a competitive yet high standard environment.

The space is quite inviting with a distinctly European vibe, combining charm and sophistication in equal measure. Warm lighting, cozy seating arrangements, and elegant architectural touches create a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a classic café in Paris or a stylish bistro in Rome. The attention to detail, from the marble tables and flooring, to the curated artwork, enhances the overall aesthetic, making it a perfect spot to relax, socialise, or simply enjoy the ambience.

The armchairs are comfortable and thoughtfully equipped with charging ports, making it easy to recharge devices. Although I struggled a bit to fit my adapter at first, it worked fine eventually.

In addition to a wide selection of soft drinks, the lounge offers a modest but appreciated range of alcoholic beverages including red and white wine, vodka, and Jack Daniels. Guests can also help themselves to bottled water and an impressive assortment of teas, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

Of course, no airport lounge in Asia would be complete without a selection of pot noodles—a staple comfort food for many travellers. Several types are available, offering quick and satisfying options for those craving a warm, familiar snack.

In addition, there are a few hot dishes available that immediately catch the eye, adding a touch of local flavour to the lounge’s offerings. Notable among them are the sweet and sour pork with pineapple, I gather offering a balance of tangy and fruity notes, but it’s the classic Kung Pao Chicken, known for its spicy, savoury kick with a hint of crunch from peanuts and vegetables that I go for.

The Kung Pao Chicken is delicious, delivering just the right amount of heat to awaken the palate without overwhelming it. The balance of tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and mildly spicy sauce makes it a standout dish among the lounge’s hot offerings.

Also on offer are classic Shaomai and fluffy BBQ pork buns. The Shaomai are bite sized and packed with savoury rice and meat filling, while the BBQ pork buns feature a sweet, smoky filling encased in soft, pillowy dough both satisfying additions to the hot food selection.

But the real winners here are the Xiao Long Bao. These delicious soup filled dumplings are a highlight, with delicate wrappers encasing a rich, savoury broth and tender pork filling. They’re comforting, flavourful, and an absolute must for any dumpling lover. Actually, I think I ate around eight of these over the four hours…

Overall, the VIP Lounge #39 at Shanghai Pudong offers a comfortable and enjoyable space to relax during a layover. With a solid selection of hot dishes, drinks, and local favourites like dumplings and pot noodles, it provides a welcome retreat from the busy terminal and a taste of regional hospitality.

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