The Most Delicious Airline Food Ever?

Airline food is a subjective matter, and tastes can vary widely depending on individual preferences and the airline in question. No matter which cabin you’re seated in, a 16-hour flight feels like what it is: frightfully long.

Of course, if you’re flying business or first, you have the luxury of space and a “bed,” but after a point, there are still all those hours that you have to pass.

On a recent Cathay Pacific nonstop flight from Hong Kong to New York, CNTraveler discovered the perfect foil to long-haul boredom: food. And not just any food—a menu designed by Duddell’s, a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant in Hong Kong. Introduced in February and slated to run on outbound flights for 12 months, the menu is built around flavors and ingredients that represent Hong Kong’s rich food culture. With items like wok-fried lobster for the main course and chrysanthemum and longan jelly for dessert, it’s far from classic airplane food.

Cathay Pacific’s improved business class design on the ultra-long-haul A350 includes a roomy 1-2-1 configuration, an increased sleeping surface per seat, and, as I discovered—oodles of individual storage space including under the armrest, a pocket inside the cabinet door for electronics, and an under-ottoman for shoes and bags. The enhancements extend to more relaxation and better sleep via plush new bedding—400 thread-count cotton sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers—and an amenity kit from British spa brand Bamford.

Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier airline of Hong Kong, is known for its high-quality inflight meals that feature a blend of Chinese and international flavors. The airline offers a variety of meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free meals, as well as special meals for passengers with dietary restrictions or allergies.

Cathay Pacific’s inflight meals are created by a team of culinary experts who work to design menus that reflect the airline’s commitment to quality and innovation. The meals are served on fine china with metal cutlery, creating a premium dining experience in the sky.

Some popular Cathay Pacific inflight meals include:

• Wok-fried dishes: A range of dishes prepared in a wok, such as stir-fried noodles or fried rice, with a choice of chicken, beef, or seafood, and a variety of vegetables and sauces.
• Dim sum: A selection of steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables, served with dipping sauces.
• Roasted meats: A choice of roasted duck, pork, or chicken, served with vegetables and rice or noodles.
• Desserts: A range of sweet treats, including ice cream, cakes, and fresh fruit.

Cathay Pacific also offers a range of premium dining experiences, such as their Business Class restaurant-style service, where passengers can choose from a range of dishes and dine on demand. Additionally, the airline has partnerships with several renowned chefs and restaurants, who create exclusive menus for Cathay Pacific’s passengers.

Overall, Cathay Pacific is known for its high-quality inflight meals that showcase the best of Chinese and international cuisine, and offer a premium dining experience for its passengers.