Best Airline Food in 2025: What to Expect in the Sky

With few exceptions, typical airplane food was cold mashed potato, vegetables steamed until they had disintegrated and pastry as stale as sawdust. Those days have been over for some time, however, with airlines scrambling in the race to offer their travelers the absolute best high-quality cuisine.

While some luxury private jets and top-end carriers may boast an onboard kitchen, for the most part, there simply isn’t space for most airlines to accommodate a kitchen on-board their planes. Most meals are pre-prepared as a necessity, sometimes up to 72 hours before serving. While freshness might be compromised, that hasn’t stopped airlines from finding new and fantastic ways to deliver delicious food that is both nutritious and good quality. Read on to discover some of the best airline food out there, the kind that actually lives up to the hype.https://777bdvip.com/

The highest in Emirati standards

It’s logical that airlines specializing in longer-distance flights would be the ones leading the way for rising food standards. After all, those passengers traveling on eight or nine-hour flights are at the mercy of the food far more than those traveling for just an hour or two. Emirates is one such airline, accustomed to flying people from its base in Dubai to far-flung places on the opposite side of the world, leaving plenty of time for their passengers to work up an appetite.

Those flying with Emirates to Tokyo or Osaka, for instance, can experience the authentic tastes of Japan before their plane has even touched down. Emirates has taken the responsibility to work with local chefs to make sure their airline food is of the typically excellent standard served in the best of Japanese establishments. A traditional Kaiseki (multiple-course meal) is served to customers, who can savor a range of authentic flavored rice, miso soup and hot dishes. If you’ve still got enough space for dessert, Wagashi sweets (prepared to traditional specifications) are on offer, washed down with a cup of green tea.

Adding to the experience, Emirates serves meals on Royal Doulton fine bone china with Robert Welch cutlery in premium cabins. And for a final touch of indulgence, First Class passengers can enjoy The Dalmore King Alexander III, an exclusive single malt matured in six rare casks, served with notes of red berries, vanilla and crème caramel. It’s a strong contender for best airline food, with every detail considered.

Impeccable taste with Qantas Airways

Qantas Airways is the second oldest airline in the world and operates primarily out of Sydney and Melbourne, Australia. They have taken the measure of hiring Australian Michelin-starred chef Neil Perry to concoct a menu of fantastic substance. First Class international passengers can enjoy such delights as Jiangsu-style steamed blue eye with bacon and mushroom broth, locally sourced and prepared in facilities by skilled and experienced chefs. The airline food menu varies with the season, meaning regular travelers can expect to enjoy a huge variety of cuisine from around the world designed specifically to be served during their flight.

With an emphasis on service, Qantas staff serving meals are silver service trained and able to advise you on your meal selection, making sure you’re not left wanting. Prestige champagnes are also on offer, and the airline takes a special pleasure in introducing its passengers from outside the country to the delights and variety of Australian wines. The wine is selected with the help of the country’s leading sommeliers, meaning you’re experiencing the cutting edge in terms of quality and taste.

Qantas continues to expand its culinary offerings with dishes like salt-and-pepper squid, poached ocean trout, and red wine braised beef short rib. Vegetarian and lighter options are available, and First Class travelers are treated to fine wines, seasonal desserts, and signature spirits like Four Pillars gin and The Singleton 15-Year-Old whisky.

An iconic burger flies with Delta Air Lines

If you’re wondering which airline has the best food, Delta makes a strong case by blending regional flavors, partnerships with culinary experts, and a consistent commitment to quality.

They have partnered with Shake Shack to bring a crowd favorite to the skies which is their signature cheeseburger. Available in First Class on flights over 900 miles from cities like Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, and Seattle, this new addition has been well received since launching from Boston in late 2024. It’s accompanied by chips, a Caesar salad, and a rich dark chocolate brownie, elevating the concept of airplane food with comfort and flavor.

Beyond the burger, Delta’s onboard offerings go further for premium cabins. In Delta One and Delta First, tea lovers can enjoy a curated selection from Thrive Farmers, including varieties like Egyptian Chamomile, Earl Grey, and Guizhou Green. For those flying long-haul in Delta One, expect a full dining experience with a choice of entrée, bread, dessert, and a range of beverages. Delta Premium Select also delivers a more refined menu with appetizers, main courses, and desserts, paired with beer, spirits, or a limited wine selection.https://777bdvip.com/

A taste of tradition with Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines doesn’t offer a First Class cabin, but its Business Class ranks among the best business class airlines for comfort and service. It’s also known for serving some of the best in-flight meals and for good reasons.

Upon boarding, Business Class travelers are welcomed with a refreshing drink and a preview of the onboard menu. On intercontinental flights, passengers can enjoy a full meal service featuring homemade pasta, traditional ravioli, and signature dishes like coal-fired kebabs and grilled fish. A variety of local appetizers highlights the depth and diversity of the region’s flavors.

Meals are thoughtfully paired with an extensive selection of hot beverages, including Turkish coffee served with a side of Turkish delight for a sweet finish. On overnight flights to or from Istanbul, the Dine on Demand service gives passengers the flexibility to enjoy their meals whenever they prefer.https://777bdvip.com/

A recent addition to the menu is their beloved bread. On select international routes, Business Class passengers are served bread made with wheat from Anatolia, believed to be the birthplace of the world’s oldest bread. Turkish Airlines is proof that business class food can be thoughtful and genuinely satisfying

French finesse on board Air France

Air France continues to set the bar for the best airline food with its collaborations with celebrated Michelin-starred chefs. In both La Première and Business cabins, passengers are treated to rotating menus curated by the best in French gastronomy. From Paris, you might experience the alpine flavors of Emmanuel Renaut or the refined sweets of Claire Heitzler and Nina Métayer. Flying from the United States? Expect the imaginative touch of Dominique Crenn. Other routes feature chefs like Julien Royer from Singapore and Olivier Chaignon from Tokyo, each bringing local flair to French technique.

La Première passengers enjoy a restaurant-quality experience with gourmet dishes such as poultry, seafood, meat, and vegetarian selections. Meals are served on designer tableware with Limoges porcelain, beveled glass, and Christofle cutlery. Business Class passengers on long-haul flights are also treated to thoughtfully prepared meals, depending on the departure location.

To complement the cuisine, Air France presents one of the best wine and champagne lists in the sky. Developed by Head Sommelier Xavier Thuizat, the selection celebrates French vineyards and heritage. Each cabin on long-haul flights even includes complimentary champagne. For something more creative, travelers can try signature cocktails designed by mixologist Matthias Giroud. Ending on a sweet note, chocolates from renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé are the final touch.

The complete premium experience

The search for the best airline food has become a serious talking point among frequent flyers. Presentation, provenance, and partnerships all play a role. And while it might not be the most profound difference, the meal experience is one of the key ways First Class sets itself apart from Business.

If you find yourself looking for a delicious treat at the airport before you have taken flight, then take a look at our guide on the best fine dining at airports around the world. Once you’ve touched down at the airport, be sure to book a Blacklane chauffeured ride to get you to your next destination.https://777bdvip.com/