If you are going into the lounge to dine, I much prefer the CX F lounge at T3 to the CCR at T5. Overall I generally prefer to travel from T3 rather than from T5.

The one plus I can think of for the BA F lounge at T3 (although I don't actually think I have been in there since the CX one opened) is for the selection of newspapers and magazines.

True, although it is somewhat irksome that, with 3 out of 14 short-haul destinations from T3 to French-speaking countries, BA does not stock French papers in T3 (unlike T5).

I enjoyed the peace and quiet of the second floor of the QF lounge. The bar area on the first floor is beautiful, but early morning is not a time (for me) to drink.

I like sitting at the wine bar on what you call the second floor (my first floor) as you can get a better view out the windows there. My ideal would be to have proper tables instead of the lounge chairs at the very end of that top floor in front of the windows - as I like to have a proper table where I can comfortably use laptop and eat, with a view. As such I'm torn between the bar upstairs, and a window table at the dining area downstairs.

Can't believe that no-one has mentioned two big (well IMHO!) perks of the AA lounge - a help yourself sweetie bar (with takeaway bags helpfully provided), and - best of all - Portlebay popcorn! If there's a finer snack to be had, I haven't found it. :p

Since I rarely drink in lounges, and have a rather sweet tooth, I often opt for the AA lounge. Great service, decent wifi and although the ambience is a bit lacking compared with the competition, I love being able to leave with a bag of chocolates for the flight.

Good point, I usually stop by at the AA lounge for such goodies. On my most recent visit I had already visited CX and QF lounges and then went for my goodies. I only had a about 10 minutes in the AA lounge so was offered a glass of bubbly on entry, I don't say no. The waiter realised I was short on time and asked if I wanted a bag of champagne truffles to go, again I didn't say no:p

Where has the dim sum gone?
 

We are not T3 regulars so haven’t visited since October. Popped into the Cathay lounge for dim sum and found a new menu.

My weekly VIE commute from T3 (currently suspended due to stay in Asia) could only survive so long if lounges didn't change their menu.... I understand you liked a particular dish but if there are 5 dishes to choose from (ignoring the rabbit eating veggie 'meals') then they need to rotate at least seasonally for those who frequent the lounges weekly or more. Eg as much as I love the ox cheek at CCR, I had it about 10 times and last time I ordered the carrot salad just to spice it up a little as it does get old...
BTW Try the Dan Dan Mian next time in CX, it's delicious!

Thanks for the recommendation. I tried fish & chips.

Does this lounge hopping at T3 cost BA money as in having to pay 2 or more airlines for using there lounges?

I normally base myself in the Cathay lounge but tried the new Qantas one recently as was very impressed, especially with the dining options. I suppose if I fancy dim-sum and noodles for dinner I'll go to Cathay if I fancy something else I'll go to Qantas. I was surprised at how small the Qantas lounge felt however, but the standard of the finish was excellent. Then I might pop into the AA lounge closer to boarding if my sweet tooth plays up and I fancy a few treats for the flight!

I was very pleasantly surprised by the AA Lounge. I normally fly VS and thought I would miss the Clubhouse experience, but it was actually very comfortable, and peaceful. There were lots of nice touches, like the sweetie jars which showed more 'personality' than say the BA lounge. And if I recall a reputable brand of Champagne on offer!
The QF lounge was very nice but I felt a bit more formal in it's layout, and no food served before 930am I think. I could be wrong.

Yes. Up to three time the cost for BA if a passenger chooses to use the CX, QF and AA facilities on the same trip.

Was in the CX J lounge in December and the Char Siu Bun was no longer on the menu :-( Does anyone know if it is/has come back?