Insects, uncovered food, and open beverages
According to a report by the Georgia Department of Health, the health inspection noted several violations, including insects in the bar area, uncovered food, and open beverages.
The lounge also did not follow standard protocol, which included displaying its previous report.
American Express shared a statement to Atlanta News First, advising:
“Delivering a great experience in the Centurion Lounge is our top priority. We take these inspections seriously and have taken immediate steps to address the report.”
According to the report, the violations listed include:
|
Item Number |
Violation code |
Observation / Corrective Action |
New or repeat violation |
|---|---|---|---|
|
2-2A |
511-6-1.03 (4)(a)(b)(c)(e)(f) |
PIC unsure of conditional employee agreement. Advised PIC staff shall be made aware of reporting illnesses. Advised PIC of a verifiable manner shall be in place. |
New |
|
2-2B |
511-6-1.03(5)(j)1&2 |
Observed open beverages (orange juice & water) on the countertop in the main kitchen. Advised PIC employees shall have a designated area to consume personal items. Items shall be consumed in a disposable cup with lid and straw. |
Repeat |
|
4-2A |
511-6-1.04(4)(c)1(iv) |
Observed foods uncovered (ice at the bar & container of fruit in the kitchen). Advised PIC all foods shall be covered to prevent contamination. |
Repeat |
|
4-2B |
511-6-1.05(7)(b) |
Observed build up on interior surfaces of the ice machine in storage area. Advised to thoroughly clean and sanitize interior surfaces and increase cleaning frequency. |
New |
|
6-1A |
511-6-1.04(6)(f) |
Observed foods/TCS items sitting on counter at 71F and 68F. Employee placed milk and yogurt in RIC to cool within cooling timeframe. |
Repeat |
|
6-1D |
511-6-1.04(6)(i) |
Observed several TCS foods @ buffet & cold station not time stamped. Also, observed employee placing time stamp on TCS items that are above 41F. Also, observed whole mile labeled TPHC dated 12/2 used by 12:58 PM. Advised when using TPHC cold times shall be placed out @ 41F & hot items shall be placed out at 135F. Advised PIC to cool. PIC was not able to provide TPHC procedures. Advised PIC procedures shall be provided @ time of inspection. |
Repeat |
|
13A |
511-6-1.02(1)(d) |
Most recent inspection report not posted. Advised to post. |
Repeat |
|
14B |
511-6-1.05(10)(a) |
Observed several dishes stacked wet. Advised PIC dishes shall air dry before stacking. Advised PIC to train staff on air drying. |
Repeat |
|
18 |
511-6-1.07(5)(k) |
Observed flies at the main bar area. Will need to have pest control treatment; will need to provide copy of most recent pest control treatment. |
Repeat |
- January 25: 100
- April 4: 71
- June 3: 71
A mandatory meeting was set up with the Health Department, the lounge owner, the managers, and the executive chef to discuss the findings. The lounge had a retest on December 18, and it has now passed.
American Express Centurion Lounge, Concourse E
The lounge, which opened at the beginning of this year, is open daily for eligible travelers from 06:00 to 23:00. Inside is a range of premium food options alongside beer, wine, and other spirits and liquor.
Printers, copiers, and fast WiFi are available; there are also shower facilities. Here's what American Express had to say in the lead-up to its opening:
“It features a locally-inspired menu from Atlanta-based Chef Deborah VanTrece, numerous seating options for guests to relax or work before their flight, outdoor terraces with views of the airfield, and The Reserve by American Express, a bespoke whiskey bar serving signature cocktails designed by Jim Meehan, Centurion Mixologist, along with a selection of classic and new American whiskeys.”
In the airport's Concourse E, alongside the American Express Centurion Lounge, there is also the Delta Sky Club (near gate E15).
