In our new blog, “Best First class Food in 2025′ we wanted to look into what makes flying first-class a distinguished way of traveling, especially internationally. Of course, you will have access to the best lounges, the most sophisticated cabins, priority boarding, and extra luggage allowance. However, the dining options raise the bar to the next level of luxury. Therefore, we created this countdown blog highlighting the best first class food in 2025.
Emirates First Class Food
One of the great things about Emirates’ first-class service is the ability to order what you want when you want. So, taking advantage of some of the world’s best chefs’ locally inspired dishes has never been tastier. Moreover, every meal is served on Royal Doulton fine bone china with exclusive Robert Welch cutlery.
In addition, you can pair your culinary delights with wines from the Emirates vintage collection that’s been stored for at least 15 years! Which also includes a Dom Pérignon 2008 and the Dalmore King Alexander III, single malt, available exclusively in Emirates First Class. Below are some treats that put Emirates on our best first class food in 2025 list. Furthermore, you can read our blog, First Class Travel: Inside the Luxury Cabin Experience from Takeoff to Touchdown.
- Caviar: with a traditional selection of finely chopped chives, grated egg, sour cream, and lemon, served with melba toast and blinis
- Antipasti: Wagyu bresaola and roasted chicken with herbs, served with parmesan and marinated vegetables
- Pan-seared salmon trout: served with mashed sweet potatoes, sautéed kai-lan, and beurre blanc with roasted macadamia nuts
- Chocolate mango tart: Layered chocolate and mango mousse topped with dark chocolate ganache, served with mango jellies
- Plant-Based Pleasures
- Zucchini tart with a crisp pastry shell and seasonal herbs
- Aromatic jackfruit biryani with fragrant basmati rice and warming spices
- Vegan mapo tofu in a bold, savory sauce
- Vegan Dessert
- Decadent chocolate truffle cake topped with roasted hazelnuts
- Look for the vegan icon on our menu to enjoy these dairy- and meat-free creations.
Qatar Airlines First Class Food
Qatar Airlines’ on-demand à la carte dining options are among the best first class food in the 2025 list. The reason is the quality and choice of gourmet menus, including their delicious, plant-based vegan dishes. Your culinary journey starts at Qatar Airways’ Al Safwa first-class lounge. While in the air, there is the option to pre-book your meals with special dietary requirements catered for, and all you have to do is sit back and enjoy first-class Qatar services. For more information on the perks of flying first class read our blog, Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Value of First Class Flights.
You can also expect the following:
- Freshly baked bread
- Gourmet vegan menu
- selection of warm and sweet creations.
- Soups, snacks, and appetizers
Air France First Class Food
When flying La Première from New York, you will be treated to Michelin-starred chef François Rouquette’s seasonal dishes. Furthermore, from March to June this year, triple Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic has created 6 exclusive main dishes for long-haul flights from Paris. These, of course, are some of the best first class food in 2025 and include the following:
- Rolled and smoked sole
- A la plancha”, smoked goat’s cheese ravioli
- coffee-smoked beef fillet
Etihad First Class Food
Etihad’s first class dining services promise passengers the same level of quality you would expect from a world-class restaurant. After seating, you will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne or fresh juice. Once refreshed, a member of Etihad’s award-winning team will guide you through the à la carte menu, making suggestions and offering pairing options. You can expect:
- Dine any time
- A la carte menu
- fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Vegetarian options
Virgin Atlantic Airways
Expect to be spoiled when flying in the upper class with Virgin Atlantic Airways. Your main meal is served soon after take-off! Furthermore, you will have the choice of four delicious courses. Depending on your flight, you can enjoy a hot breakfast or a selection of Extra Bites whenever you fancy. If you’re peckish, there’s a range of snacks to choose from in the Upper-Class social space.
On the current Virgin Atlantic Airways upper-class menu, you can expect the following:
- Salmon gravadlax with pickled cucumber, grain mustard mayonnaise, and pumpernickel bread
- Toragashi marinated halloumi poke bowl with sushi rice, braised pineapple, seaweed salad, edamame beans, crispy onions, and a shoyu dressing
- Cumberland sausage, back bacon, free-range poached egg, black pudding, vine cherry tomatoes, and portobello mushroom
Final Thoughts
First-class air travel in 2025 has become more than just a luxurious way to fly — it’s a culinary experience in its own right. From caviar service at 40,000 feet to bold plant-based creations, airlines are setting new standards in in-flight dining. Whether indulging in the timeless elegance of Emirates or exploring innovative vegan fare, one thing is clear: the sky is no longer the limit regarding flavor.
Ready to experience the best in first-class dining?
