Lounge Review: Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Located on Level 4 of Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) Terminal 1, the Cathay Pacific Lounge offers a quiet sanctuary above the terminal's bustle for eligible passengers flying out of Taiwan’s busiest international hub. Opened in November 2015 following a design overhaul led by London-based Studioilse (the same firm behind Cathay’s lounges in Hong Kong and elsewhere), this lounge embraces the carrier’s signature blend of understated luxury and natural materials. It is open daily and accessible to First and Business Class passengers on Cathay Pacific and other oneworld carriers, as well as oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members. While I typically fly with Singapore Airlines or EVA Air on regional routes, airfares over the Labour Day long weekend in Singapore were significantly inflated. Surprisingly, Cathay Pacific was offering fares at less than half the price of the aforementioned carriers, making it an easy decision – especially with my oneworld Emerald status in hand.

Light Bites
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Even though Taipei is not Cathay Pacific’s home base – that belongs to Hong Kong International Airport, where its flagship lounges like The Pier and The Wing are located – the Cathay Pacific Lounge at Taoyuan International Airport punches well above its weight. In fact, it is not a stretch to say that this outstation lounge is more elegantly executed than what some full-service carriers offer in their home airports (yes, I am looking at you Singapore Airlines). The attention to detail and consistency in brand aesthetic demonstrate a commitment to the traveller experience, regardless of location.

Noodle Bar
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

The Cathay Pacific Lounge at TPE Terminal 1 may not be sprawling in size, but it is thoughtfully segmented into distinct zones that cater to different passenger needs. Just past the reception area, guests will find a compact pantry offering light refreshments and self-serve beverages, ideal for a quick grab-and-go before the flight. This section of the lounge remained relatively quiet during my visit, as most guests naturally gravitated towards the deeper areas, which offer more privacy, cushier seating, and probably also because that is where the drinks are located at. Tucked quietly to one side is The Bureau which is a business-friendly space equipped with workstations and printing facilities but I am not convinced that people actually use this space these days.

Main Dining Area
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

At the heart of the lounge lies the Dining Room, home to the iconic Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar. Though more compact than its Hong Kong counterparts, the offering here remains true to form with freshly prepared, made-to-order favourites like dan dan mian and wonton noodles – dishes that have become synonymous with Cathay’s lounge experience. What stood out during my visit, however, was the inclusion of local Taiwanese specialities, such as braised pork rice (lu rou fan) and Taiwanese beef noodles. I have always appreciated Cathay’s consistency in curating a familiar culinary identity across its lounges, but it is equally commendable when regional touches are thoughtfully incorporated – a small but meaningful way to connect with travellers.

Selection of Hot Food
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

I am happy to report that the wonton noodles remain as satisfying as ever. While I did not sample the dan dan mian (it is not a personal favourite), the braised pork rice (lu rou fan) was a standout, featuring tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly atop fragrant rice. Unfortunately, the Taiwanese beef noodles did not quite hit the mark during my visit – the broth lacked depth and had tomatoes which is fairly unusual. If you are flying via Terminal 2 on a separate trip with Singapore Airlines or EVA Air, I highly recommend making time for Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodles (林東芳牛肉麵), which has an outlet there—the rich, herbal broth alone is worth the visit.

Smaller Dining Area
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

The dining area in the Cathay Pacific Lounge is surprisingly well laid out, considering the overall size of the lounge. While it is not an expansive space, I genuinely appreciate the variety of seating configurations available. The booth-style seating, in particular, stands out—they are ideal if you are travelling with a companion or in a small group, allowing for easy sharing of food (and drinks), and more importantly, facilitating comfortable conversation without the need to raise your voice. It is a subtle design touch, but one that makes a real difference in creating a more relaxed and social dining experience.

Main Seating Area
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

After enjoying a proper meal, I made my way to the main seating area, which is furnished with Cathay Pacific’s signature design elements – a tasteful blend of leather, wood, and soft lighting that instantly sets the tone. Honestly, it feels less like a typical airport lounge and more like an impeccably styled living room in a luxury apartment. There is an impressive mix of seating options, allowing you to choose based on your needs – whether you are settling in for some work, reclining with a drink, or having a quiet conversation with a friend.

Seating Area resembling a Living Room
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

One of my biggest gripes with many lounges is the overuse of uniform tables and chairs, which often results in a space that feels clinical, uninspired, or eerily similar to a corporate waiting room. Thankfully, that is not the case here. Another thoughtful detail I really appreciated was the discreet placement of USB charging ports and universal power outlets. Instead of being overtly visible or mounted awkwardly on table legs, the outlets are quietly tucked away – you will find them either hidden within small drawers or subtly positioned at the side of your seat, easily accessible without being intrusive. It is a small touch, but one that speaks volumes about intentional design.

Seating Area near the Bar
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Just like in a well-designed home, practical elements are cleverly concealed to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the space. After all, most of us would not leave bulky power strips in plain sight at home—and Cathay Pacific clearly understands this. Their ability to seamlessly blend functionality with elegance has long been a hallmark of their lounges, and this Taipei outpost is no exception.

The Bar
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

At the very end of the lounge, you will find a full-service Bar – a feature that is not always offered in Cathay Pacific’s outstation lounges, making it a notable highlight here in Taipei. As you walk through the main seating area, the bar gradually comes into view, and it is hard not to be drawn in by its warm lighting, elegant counter design, and inviting presence. It actually reminded me of the beautiful bar in the Cathay Pacific Lounge at Haneda Airport (you can read my review HERE), which I still consider to be the best airport lounge in Haneda Airport (HND) – at least until the much-anticipated American Express Centurion Lounge opens this year. The bar here offers a surprisingly extensive drinks menu, ranging from wines (including a Crémant, though not Champagne) to classic cocktails, local and international beers, and the usual line-up of premium spirits.

Cocktails from The Bar
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

I have been flying Cathay Pacific a lot more frequently of late, and honestly, I do not mind the stopover in Hong Kong – especially when it means access to some of the best airport lounges in the world. For oneworld Emerald members, the experience is elevated even further, with perks like a soak in a marble bathtub at The Wing, First, or a beautifully curated meal at The Pier, First. While flying via Hong Kong may add a bit of travel time compared to a direct flight on Singapore Airlines (or a no-frills low-cost carrier), it often results in a more enjoyable journey overall, and can even help you arrive at your destination at a more convenient hour.

Main Seating Area
Cathay Pacific Lounge (Terminal 1) - Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

The Cathay Pacific Lounge at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) was a delightful surprise – thoughtfully designed, comfortably appointed, and unmistakably Cathay in every way that matters. From the warm hospitality to the well-executed local dishes and full-service bar, it strikes the right balance between familiar luxury and regional charm. It is always a pleasure when a lounge experience leaves you looking forward to the next visit, and this was certainly one of those moments.