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On June 27, 2023, Air Canada unveiled the first Maple Leaf Lounge (MLL) at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). A brand new concept which brings together a range of premium amenities, elevated comforts, and a stunning outdoor terrace – a first in the Maple Leaf Lounge network. The latest addition to SFO is Air Canada’s third in the U.S. (the other two being La Guardia LGA and Los Angeles Internation LAX) and 28th worldwide. I was happy to be on the invitee list for the SFO launch event on the evening of June 26, a day before the lounge officially opened to all passengers.
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge SFO – Location and Access
The lounge is in terminal 2 of the San Francisco International Airport, just past security to the left. The Maple Leaf Lounge signage directs passengers to the mezzanine level using a set of dedicated elevators.
The chic black and red colours of Air Canada welcome passengers as they step outside the elevators. The black e-gates with the warm wooden panels’ backdrop and AC logo give an executive lounge vibe.
Entrance to MLL at SFO
Maple Leaf lounges are available to the following passengers;
- Aeroplan 50K, 75K and Aeroplan Super Elite Status members
- Star Alliance Gold members
- Aeroplan premium co-brand cardholders
- Passengers with a business class ticket on Air Canada or another Star Alliance member
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge SFO – Seating and Layout
The exclusive 165-seat space (135 interiors + 30 exterior) features an impressive variety of seating styles and an expansive outdoor terrace with aircraft and runway views. The lounge, designed with San Francisco-based architectural firm Gensler, provides elevated comfort and pays homage to its California location through its design and decor.
Just past the main entrance, the lounge opens up into an inviting space flush with natural light, seating options suitable for families and individual travellers alike.
MLL Seating
The views of the gates and tarmac are central to the experience while in the lounge, as the space complements the views with different seating options beautifully.
Floor to Ceiling windows with Gate/Tarmac views
Across from the main seating areas of the lounge are dedicated sections for those that require a quiet ‘Workspace‘ or a ‘VIP room’ suitable for ten people.
VIP Room – MLL at SFO
More Lounge Seating
The highlight of the lounge experience is undoubtedly the outdoor terrace equipped with two vapour fireplaces overlooking the tarmac and runway views. Air Canada did confirm that heating equipment will be added during colder months.
Outdoor Terrace
Layout of Outdoor Terrace
Outdoor Terrace – Variety of seating options
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge SFO – Food and Drinks
The food and beverage selections highlight local makers and flavours. The iconic San Francisco fish stew cioppino was offered alongside a selection of California wines and beer from Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and Anchor Brewing—America’s first craft beer. Air Canada confirmed that the food on display for the launch event would also be served during regular evening operations.
The food options included a self-serve (hot and cold) buffet, a bar with a bartender serving a selection of wines in addition to local craft beers, a curated cocktail menu, and an espresso.
Self-serve (hot and cold) buffet
Wraps and Salads, Charcuterie Boards
Iconic San Francisco fish stew cioppino
Dessert and Coffee station
Drinks Menu – Maple Leaf Lounge SFO
My preferred drink for the evening was Golden Gate, a cocktail made with Tequila, Chartreuse, Agave syrup, Lime, Cucumber, Mint, and Jalapeno salt: Yum, a must-try.
Cocktail – Golden Gate
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge SFO – TakeAway
Air Canada has knocked this one out of the park. The airline’s first lounge with an outdoor terrace is a beauty and will soon become the preferred lounge at SFO to fly out of internationally. In partnership with United Airlines, Air Canada offers up to 21 daily flights from San Francisco to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal. Maple Leaf Lounge SFO will be a true airport retreat that elevates Air Canada’s flight and airport experience for customers travelling from California to Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia via three of the airline’s main hubs: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Montreal Trudeau (YUL), and Vancouver International (YVR) Airports.
1 comment
Been twice to this lounge now. Does not disappoint. The breakfast menu had better offerings than most including a lovely vegan sandwich with a soft, pillowy perfectly made brioche bun.