Top Airlines With the Best Food for Long Haul Flights

14 July 2025

Let's be real—long-haul flights can be exhausting. You're stuck in a metal tube for hours, trying to get comfortable in your seat while battling jet lag. But one thing that can make or break your flying experience? The food.

Airplane meals have a bad reputation, but some airlines put serious effort into serving gourmet dishes at 35,000 feet. From Michelin-starred chefs creating inflight menus to exotic meal options, certain airlines turn dining in the sky into a fine dining experience.

Whether you're a foodie or just someone trying to survive a 12-hour flight with a decent meal, this list of airlines serving the best food on long-haul flights will have you reconsidering your next booking.

1. Singapore Airlines – A Culinary Delight in the Sky

Why It Stands Out

Singapore Airlines constantly tops the charts when it comes to inflight dining. Their "Book the Cook" service allows premium passengers to pre-select gourmet meals designed by world-class chefs before their flight. Even if you're flying economy, expect quality ingredients and well-balanced dishes.

Signature Dishes

- Lobster Thermidor (Business & First Class)
- Singaporean Chicken Rice
- Satay with Peanut Sauce

Bonus Points

- Wide variety of dishes catering to dietary restrictions
- Wines selected by expert sommeliers
- Meals designed by the International Culinary Panel

2. Qatar Airways – Fine Dining Above the Clouds

Why It Stands Out

Qatar Airways takes inflight dining seriously, making every meal feel luxurious. Their onboard chefs ensure the presentation and flavors are top-notch, even at 40,000 feet.

Signature Dishes

- Arabic Mezze Platter
- Braised Lamb Shank
- Gourmet Chocolate Desserts

Bonus Points

- Dine-on-demand service for Business Class
- Lavish cutlery and tableware for a first-class feel
- Extensive wine and champagne selection

3. Emirates – Dining Like Royalty

Why It Stands Out

Emirates has built a reputation for extravagant service, and their food is no exception. With multi-course meals featuring flavors from around the world, you won’t feel like you're eating a standard airline meal.

Signature Dishes

- Caviar Service (First Class)
- Lamb Ouzi (Middle Eastern Specialty)
- Emirates’ Signature Arabic Coffee with Dates

Bonus Points

- Exclusive wine selection costing millions
- First Class passengers get Dom Pérignon Champagne
- Economy meals still feel premium compared to other airlines

4. Turkish Airlines – A Taste of Authentic Turkish Cuisine

Why It Stands Out

Turkish Airlines brings some of the best flavors of Turkey straight to your tray table. Their catering partner, DO & CO, ensures restaurant-quality meals onboard.

Signature Dishes

- Grilled Lamb Chops
- Traditional Turkish Pide
- Baklava for Dessert

Bonus Points

- Authentic Turkish tea and coffee service
- Freshly baked bread served with meals
- Generous portion sizes, even in economy

5. ANA (All Nippon Airways) – Japanese Perfection

Why It Stands Out

If you love Japanese cuisine, ANA is a dream come true. From beautifully presented sushi to authentic ramen, this airline turns meal service into an art form.

Signature Dishes

- Kaiseki (Traditional Multi-Course Meal)
- Ippudo Ramen (Business & First Class)
- Premium Japanese Wagyu Beef

Bonus Points

- Seasonal menus featuring fresh ingredients
- Authentic sake selection
- Even economy class meals feel premium

6. Air France – A Gastronomic Experience

Why It Stands Out

French cuisine is synonymous with elegance, and Air France ensures that its passengers experience fine dining in the sky. With menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, their meals are a true treat.

Signature Dishes

- Beef Bourguignon
- French Cheese Platter
- Freshly Baked Croissants & Baguettes

Bonus Points

- Champagne served even in economy class
- Menus rotate frequently to keep things fresh
- Desserts rival those of Parisian cafés

7. Cathay Pacific – Asian Fusion Done Right

Why It Stands Out

Cathay Pacific crafts an inflight menu that blends traditional Chinese flavors with international favorites. The result? Fantastic meals that will make you forget you're on an airplane.

Signature Dishes

- Dim Sum Breakfast
- Hong Kong-style Roast Duck
- Mango & Pomelo Sago Dessert

Bonus Points

- Authentic tea selection
- Stylish tableware enhancing the experience
- Fresh ingredients sourced meticulously

8. Japan Airlines – Traditional Japanese Elegance

Why It Stands Out

Japan Airlines (JAL) brings traditional Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) to its inflight meals. Whether it’s sushi or miso soup, you're guaranteed an authentic culinary experience.

Signature Dishes

- Seasonal Sushi & Sashimi
- Wagyu Sukiyaki
- Green Tea Mille Crêpes

Bonus Points

- Set menus designed by top Japanese chefs
- Beautiful plating and presentation
- Complimentary sake and green tea

9. Etihad Airways – Middle Eastern Excellence

Why It Stands Out

Etihad’s inflight dining experience focuses on high-quality ingredients and a refined menu selection that rivals five-star restaurants.

Signature Dishes

- Chicken Biryani
- Arabic Mezze
- Sticky Date Pudding

Bonus Points

- Onboard chef for First Class passengers
- Elegant plating and presentation
- High-end wine and champagne selection

10. Lufthansa – Gourmet German Cuisine

Why It Stands Out

Lufthansa might not be the first airline you think of for great food, but their commitment to high-quality meals has earned them a spot on this list. They serve hearty German dishes alongside international options.

Signature Dishes

- Sauerbraten (German Pot Roast)
- Black Forest Cake
- Artisan Bread Selection

Bonus Points

- Rotating seasonal menus
- Premium beer selection
- Authentic European dining experience

Final Thoughts

Let's be honest—airplane food has come a long way. The days of bland, over-salted trays of mystery meat are fading away, thanks to airlines that take inflight dining seriously. Whether you're a fan of sushi, classic French cuisine, or Middle Eastern flavors, there's a long-haul airline that will make your journey delicious.

So, the next time you're booking a long-haul flight, consider not just the lounge access or extra legroom, but also which airline will serve you the best meal at 35,000 feet. Because let's face it—good food can make even a 12-hour flight feel like a breeze.