Business class lounges serving flights to Asia are a gourmand’s paradise. From sushi bars in Tokyo to dim sum stations in Hong Kong, these pre-flight havens offer a tantalizing preview of the culinary journey ahead. Expect a mix of local delicacies and international favorites, often prepared à la minute by skilled chefs.
The Cathay Pacific Pier in Hong Kong dazzles with its noodle bar, serving steaming bowls of wonton noodle soup. Singapore Airlines’ SilverKris Lounge in Changi Airport boasts a laksa station that’s not to be missed. ANA’s Suite Lounge in Tokyo Narita offers a made-to-order teppanyaki grill.
These lounge dining experiences set the stage for the culinary adventure to come, offering a taste of the destination before you even board the plane.
Airlines meticulously craft their business class menus for Asian routes, often collaborating with renowned chefs to create dishes that showcase both local flavors and international cuisine. Menus are carefully planned to account for changes in taste perception at altitude and the logistics of in-flight food preparation.
You’ll find a harmonious blend of Asian-inspired dishes and global classics. Think Lobster Thermidor on Singapore Airlines, Kaiseki meals on JAL, or Thai-style curries on Thai Airways. These are balanced with familiar Western options like grilled steaks or pasta dishes to cater to diverse palates.
This culinary fusion reflects the multicultural nature of modern business travel, offering a taste of home and adventure in equal measure.
Preparing gourmet meals at 35,000 feet is no small feat. Airlines employ specially designed ovens and preparation techniques to ensure food quality. Dishes are often partially prepared on the ground and finished in-flight. Some airlines, like ANA, even adjust their recipes to account for the cabin pressure’s effect on taste buds.
Business class wine lists are curated by sommeliers to complement the menu and withstand altitude changes. Expect a selection of Old and New World wines, champagne, and sometimes even sake. Many airlines also offer signature cocktails or local spirits like Korean soju or Japanese whisky.
These carefully selected beverages enhance the dining experience, turning a simple meal into a multi-sensory journey.
Airlines serving Asian routes are well-equipped to handle various dietary requirements. Whether you’re vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, or have other restrictions, most carriers offer a range of special meals. It’s best to request these in advance to ensure availability and quality.
To get the most out of your business class dining experience, consider pre-ordering your meal if the airline offers this option. Don’t hesitate to ask flight attendants for recommendations or wine pairings. And remember, you can usually request items from the menu at any time during the flight.
From lounge to landing, business class flights to Asia offer a culinary journey that rivals many high-end restaurants. It’s a feast for the senses that begins long before you reach your destination.
Ready to embark on your own culinary adventure in the skies? Book your business class flight to Asia today
