There’s an unspoken rule of air travel: the higher you go, the lower the standards for cuisine. Airline food has earned its dubious reputation as a culinary black hole—a place where flavor goes to die and textures take on a life of their own.
Once upon a time, airline meals were glamorous. Black-and-white photos from the golden age of aviation showcase passengers dining on lobster tails served on fine china, sipping champagne poured from actual glass bottles. Fast forward to today, and you’re lucky if your meal isn’t trying to escape its vacuum-sealed prison.
But while the standards might have dropped, some valiant airlines are holding the fort down. Many of these are going above and beyond by providing high-quality restaurant-esque meals. Think Michelin-starred dining experiences as you cross time zones. Check out these 8 airlines known for their tasty in-flight food;
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Delta Airlines
With Delta Airlines, your in-flight dining experience goes beyond the usual fare, offering seasonally inspired menus crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Delta collaborates with local farmers and artisans to serve exciting dishes that reflect the flavors of your destination.
For those in First Class on long-haul flights, the culinary experience is elevated with gourmet options like ginger beer-braised and barbecue beef short ribs. These meals are complemented by indulgent desserts such as strawberry rhubarb and pretzel tart. Paired with Delta’s high rankings for on-time arrivals and customer satisfaction, your journey is as delightful as your destination.
Air New Zealand
Flying with Air New Zealand is a treat for both peace of mind and your taste buds. Known for its safety and young fleet of sleek, modern airplanes, the airline goes the extra mile to keep passengers comfortable and well-fed. Even in Economy, you can savor fresh New Zealand cuisine infused with Asian and Mediterranean flavors, paired with a curated selection of New Zealand wines.
First-class passengers are spoiled with customizable gourmet meals and quick bites on night flights. On select domestic routes, the unique Koru Hour adds a touch of indulgence with complimentary New Zealand wines, beers, and snacks.
Korean Air
Korean Air is renowned for its exceptional in-flight cuisine, earning the prestigious “Best Airline Cuisine” award in 2023. The airline emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and celebrates local flavors with a menu that highlights Korean classics like Bibimbap. Bibimbap is a vibrant rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and spicy sauce you mix yourself—and braised mackerel.
Expanding on their culinary offerings, Korean Air now features a vegan menu inspired by traditional Korean temple food, ensuring a delightful experience for all dietary preferences. Even their economy class passengers enjoy meals that far surpass typical airline fare.
Lufthansa
The renowned German airline goes beyond mere transportation to deliver award-winning travel with a culinary twist. In First and Business Class, passengers can indulge in gourmet dishes served on fine china, such as Hokkaido pumpkin with crème fraîche or roasted pike-perch.
On international routes, the menu caters to all tastes with a variety of regional dishes, hot and cold beverages, and specially crafted meals for dietary needs. Even kids are treated to colorful and flavorful options, ensuring smiles all around.
Emirates
Emirates takes in-flight dining to new heights, offering a gourmet experience that rivals fine dining on the ground. Whether you’re flying in Economy or First Class, you’ll enjoy meals crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients and served with flair.
Their menu boasts a diverse array of dishes, from regional specialties like paneer makhani to vegan delights such as jackfruit biryani. Meals are served with comforting classics and decadent desserts like chocolate truffle cake.
In First Class, the luxury reaches its peak—you can order anything you want, anytime, and have it served in your private suite on luxurious china. With Emirates, dining at 40,000 feet is more than a meal; it’s a culinary journey.
Turkish Airlines
Crowned “Best Airline in Europe” an impressive nine times, Turkish Airlines has redefined the art of in-flight dining. In Economy, passengers can enjoy gourmet hot sandwiches bursting with unique flavors, elevating the typical airplane meal to restaurant-quality standards.
Business Class takes it a step further, offering a curated selection of regional Turkish appetizers, grilled specialties like Adana kebab, and even homemade pasta. For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, a variety of special meals are available. On long-haul Business Class flights, the Dine on Demand service allows passengers to savor their meals whenever they please, making it easy to move into new time zones.
Qatar Airways
Flying across the globe with Qatar Airways’ Business Class is like dining at a five-star restaurant—only at 35,000 feet. In your private suite with sliding doors, you’re treated to gourmet meals crafted by world-renowned chefs.
From fresh, perfectly seasoned dishes to a variety of plant-based options for vegan travelers, the on-demand menu ensures you can savor whatever you crave, whenever you want. Whether it’s a sophisticated cheese plate at takeoff or a succulent lamb dinner at 2 a.m., every bite is a testament to the airlines’ commitment to culinary excellence.
Singapore Airlines
Based in the vibrant island nation of Southeast Asia, Singapore Airlines not only offers seamless connections across the region and beyond but also takes in-flight dining to new heights. They go the extra mile to ensure your taste buds are delighted, testing meals in a simulated cabin to guarantee flavors shine at 30,000 feet.
Passengers can savor a diverse array of dishes, from iconic Singaporean satay to delicate French pastries. For those flying in Premium cabins, the “Book the Cook” service lets you pre-order gourmet meals tailored to your preferences. To top it off, you can preview the menu online up to eight days before your flight, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Conclusion
In-flight food has evolved over the years, incorporating regional meals that offer travelers a taste of local cuisine, creativity, and even luxury. Whether you’re on a flight and enjoying a snack box or a multi-course meal, the quality of in-flight food can make a huge impact on the overall travel experience.
