Top 3 Airlines With The Best Meals

On most airlines, the food resembles the blankets—rarely free and small in size. Add a list of ingredients that’s weird and unrecognizable, and you’ll understand the less than enthusiastic response people have when presented with meals in the sky. But some carriers, mostly long-haul foreign ones, are embarking on a new culinary flight path. Some of the high-end gastronomic perks are for first- and business-class passengers only, but on these three airlines, economy passengers also benefit from the attention to quality food service.

Turkish Airlines

It’s a food lover’s fantasy: A chef in starched whites and towering toque greets boarding passengers at the plane door as if to welcome them into a restaurant. The “flying chef” is in charge of all cuisine, for first and business classes served on long-haul flights. These chefs work at preparing meals both pre-flight (at ground catering facilities) and in-flight (a perk reserved for business-class passengers only). With everything served fresh, enticing aromas of traditional Turkish dishes waft through all cabins shortly after takeoff, and portions for all classes are generous.

Emirates Airline

Wild Iranian caviar? Check. Dom Pérignon? Check. Charger plates? Yup, it’s just like eating at fancy restaurants on terra firma. With seven-course lunches and dinners, it’s fortunate that these Emirates flights are long-haul or there’d be no time to sleep in first class. Emirates’ economy passengers don’t get shortchanged. Most drinks, including wine, are complimentary, while meals feature five courses.

Etihad Airways

Etihad lavishes first-class travelers with exquisite food and personalized service. Armed with the top resort and restaurant experience, the onboard chefs do much of the cooking à la minute, and can customize sauces, poach eggs, and brew macchiato.

In business class, a food-and-beverage manager caters to every whim. They work hand-in-glove with Etihad chefs and wine producers to guide guests through in-flight course selections and beverage pairings, and will even recommend restaurants in your destination city.

Coach fliers can choose between three entrées (Western, Middle Eastern, or destination-specific), served with a warm dessert and wine, spirits and beer. Etihad also provides surprises mid-route, like popcorn or ice cream. Cappuccino and espresso are also offered—a rarity in economy class.

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