Last month I broke the news, based on an Austin city permit that Chase would be opening a space in the Austin airport, an indoor-outdoor space next to the Delta Sky Club< which takes over the public outdoor deck. It's opening this month and will offer grab and go food.

Chase has shared that the “Sapphire Terrace” will open March 20, and be available to Sapphire Reserve cardmembers departing from Austin (no access on arrival) and offer complimentary local beverages (“like cider from Austin Eastciders and beer from (512) Brewing Company as well as non-alcoholic beverages”).

There will be “shuffleboard, a giveaway, and more” and “artwork from Austin artist and muralist Rex Hamilton that’s inspired by the vibrant colors and native flowers of Texas.”

Sapphire Reserve cardmembers will be eligible to bring two guests. The space will be open daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It’s not a “Sapphire Lounge” operated by the same company which issues Priority Pass and therefore is for Sapphire Reserve cardmembers (and presumably JP Morgan Reserve cardmembers) only.

I had a little bit of extra time before my flight out of Austin yesterday morning, so I walked down to gate 1 to have a look on progress.

You go up the stairs or elevator as though you’re headed to the Sky Club. The elevator button for the upper level already lists Sapphire Terrace alongside the Delta Sky Club.

When you go up to the second level the Sky Club is on your right and entrance to the Sapphire Terrace is on your left. Currently it’s taped off, and a staging area for furnishings.

It looks like these are the grab and go vending machines for food, but presumably no payment will be required.

There’s not much being done to the space, other than replacing and adding furniture to be honest. Gone are the picnic tables from the public space, replaced by new furnishing.

There’s a refreshments cart outside.

And shuffleboard on the ground:

Chase was able to get this opened quickly – it’s only been about six weeks since I noted permits to add power outlets – and they’ve said they will open later this month. It should be worthwhile for Sapphire Reserve cardmembers to check out, but it’s not a lounge in the traditional sense and more of a weather-permitting space. Still this area has been the hidden gem of the airport, for spotting planes, and will now have snacks and beverage service as well for those who are eligible.