Strangest dishes served on airplanes: Where barbecue or fondue offered
The strangest dishes served to passengers on airplanes (photo: Getty Images)
Planes are always associated with standardized meals in plastic trays. But there are airlines that impress passengers with exotic and unusual dishes. From shish kebabs to traditional goulash, here's what they can surprise you with on board.
We are used to the fact that airplane food is often simple, if not boring. Sandwiches, pasta, or chicken and rice have become the standard for most air carriers. But there are airlines that go beyond the usual menu and offer passengers dishes that are rarely seen even in a restaurant.
Barbecue in the sky
Air Astana, an airline based in Kazakhstan, decided to surprise its passengers by offering a real kebab. It is served with flavored pita bread and vegetables, and spices add authentic flavor to the dish. The airline will also offer cold ayran.
The doner kebab was launched on January 1, 2025, on evening flights for those traveling between Germany and Turkey. Later, the dish will be added to the menu on other flights of the airline. The dish will cost about 8 euros.
Goulash from Hungarian airlines
If you're flying from or to Hungary, some airlines offer traditional Hungarian goulash. Rich, flavorful, with tender meat and vegetables, it will definitely make you forget about the 10,000-meter altitude.
Pancakes with mushrooms
Finnair offers its passengers Finnish-style bread with rice filling, as well as pancakes filled with mushrooms and sausage.
Miso soup and sushi from Japanese carriers
Japan Airlines and ANA are famous for their menus, which include miso soup, sushi, and even natto (fermented beans). This is a real gift for fans of Japanese cuisine.
Fondue in the Alps, but on an airplane
Swiss Airlines offers its passengers cheese fondue served in special pots. It is not only delicious but also creates an atmosphere of comfort, even when the temperature is below zero.
Exotic from Emirates
Emirates Airlines is famous for its luxury, and its menu is no exception. Passengers can enjoy lamb curry, grilled shrimp, or even hummus with falafel.
Mini bottle of wine
Air France offers passengers mini-bottles of chardonnay and cheese as an appetizer to accompany the main meal on board.
Interesting facts
- During a flight, the perception of taste changes: at an altitude of 10,000 meters, food seems less salty and sweet.
- Airlines are investing millions of dollars in developing menus that will remain delicious even in the air.
- The most expensive airline menu is offered by Singapore Airlines: you can taste dishes from Michelin-starred chefs on board.
- Special kitchens prepare and pack meals for the flight a few hours before departure.
- Chicken and rice remains the most popular meal on airplanes, ordered by 50% of passengers.
Earlier, we wrote about what the world's smallest airport looks like.
Sources: travelandleisure.com, foodandwine.com, simpleflying.com.
