JFK > MAN Delta flight; VS ticket - Lounge?

Leaving from JFK to MAN on a VS Z class fare, operated by Delta:

(a) Do I get use of the VS Clubhouse or DL SkyClub or a choice?
(b) If it's the SkyClub, will they entertain a request for Clubhouse access?
(c) ..and supposing I do get a choice or the option to request, which is the better facility esp. for food? (Hoping to miss dinner onboard to get a bit of extra shut-eye).

Any info and/or opinion esp. on the comparitive merits of the two lounges gratefully received. Thanx.

You can use either I believe. The VS Clubhouse, most would agree I think, is far superior with a decent restaurant menu instead of the limited buffet DL typically provides.

You can certainly use the Clubhouse. Have done so a few times when on the DL flight to MAN when in J. clubhouse wins hands down though I quite like the JFK Delta Sky Club.

You can certainly use the Clubhouse. Have done so a few times when on the DL flight to MAN when in J. clubhouse wins hands down though I quite like the JFK Delta Sky Club.

Jon - how can you possibly like a Delta Sky Club over a VS Clubhouse (unless you are in a very quick hurry and only have time for one drink)? The term "Chalk & Cheese" comes to mind!

You can certainly use the Clubhouse. Have done so a few times when on the DL flight to MAN when in J. clubhouse wins hands down though I quite like the JFK Delta Sky Club.

Jon - how can you possibly like a Delta Sky Club over a VS Clubhouse (unless you are in a very quick hurry and only have time for one drink)? The term "Chalk & Cheese" comes to mind!

The Clubhouse wins hands down as above - but other than Orlando I've had some good Sky Club experiences.

The Sky Clubs at JFK (T2 & T4) and ATL(F) in particular are ok. Yes they don't have the same vibe or offer as a Clubhouse but I've only ever found staff willing to help and be friendly about it, the food hasn't been too shabby (it's not on the same scale as a Clubhouse of course)

Now where I have a choice between a Clubhouse and a Sky Club you will always find me in the Clubhouse

Jon

Thanks for the input. I'll be glad if I get a choice and will use the Clubhouse if available. Anybody know whether I check in with VS or DL and whether it might make a difference to my "invitation"?

You check in with the airline operating the flight, so Delta (although they share the same area at JFK T4).

You don't get a physical invitation, your boarding pass will be sufficient (although the Clubhouse reception should have passenger lists).

Thanks for the input. I was welcomed at the JFK Clubhouse. It didn't occur to me, though, that they'd be packing up a good while before the late MAN departure (2245 local). Nothing was said when we arrived at the desk; only that no departure announcements were made. I intended to eat late so I held off ordering anything until maybe 2045. When I did, the server made no mention of short timescales, so I did get a main course provided, but was eventually quite rushed - and not very politely - by the Ladies In Red to finish it. And, of course, no opportunity at this point for a dessert. We then headed for the Sky Club for the last 1/2hr and yes, absolutely, the Clubhouse is waaaayy ahead. Cheers.

Ah, yes the Clubhouse closes once the last VS flight has been called. Were the Clubhouse the official DL lounge it would stay open longer but it's not and the general expectation is that DL passengers use the SkyClub.

Thanks for the input. I was welcomed at the JFK Clubhouse. It didn't occur to me, though, that they'd be packing up a good while before the late MAN departure (2245 local). Nothing was said when we arrived at the desk; only that no departure announcements were made. I intended to eat late so I held off ordering anything until maybe 2045. When I did, the server made no mention of short timescales, so I did get a main course provided, but was eventually quite rushed - and not very politely - by the Ladies In Red to finish it. And, of course, no opportunity at this point for a dessert. We then headed for the Sky Club for the last 1/2hr and yes, absolutely, the Clubhouse is waaaayy ahead. Cheers.

Ahh. Yes. It seems like they were off a little communication wise and it should have been explained when checking in at the CH of course. When I have taken the DL flight to MAN they have managed my expectations in terms of leaving around 2130 when the CH closes after the last VS flight leaves. Though of course they usually board the MAN flight about 40mins before departure, so with a slow(ish) walk I have always just timed it right.