Let’s be real. Airline meals, even in Business Class, usually fall somewhere between “it’s fine” and “at least it’s warm.” You don’t board a flight expecting a top-notch dining affair, especially not when you’re 35,000 feet in the air and halfway across the globe. But Cathay Pacific turned that expectation completely on its head. From the moment we were handed our welcome drinks to the last sip of Hong Kong milk tea before landing, the food experience was so thoughtfully crafted that it stood out not just for an airline but even compared to some restaurants we’ve dined at on the ground.
We’re talking delicate Asian-inspired meals, comfort dishes done with finesse, sweet little packaged snacks, and a hands-down delicious coffee that made me feel like I was being gently pampered somewhere over the Pacific. My husband was just as impressed, which made the whole experience even better.
We had the privilege of being on the very first Cathay Pacific flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Hong Kong when it launched in April 2025. Out of all my international Business Class flights, this one stood out in the best possible way. So, let’s dive fork-first into everything we ate, sipped, and savored on our 16-hour journey to Hong Kong.
Dining at 35,000 Feet: Our In-Flight Culinary Experience
A Toast to Takeoff: Cathay Delight
Not long after takeoff, the cabin crew came around with a welcome drink, and let me, Cathay Delight lives up to its award winning name. This vivid green non-alcoholic blend of kiwi, coconut milk, and mint is exclusive to Cathay Pacific, and it was love at first sip. It struck that rare balance of refreshing, tropical, and not cloyingly sweet. I didn’t even wait for the next drink service. I asked for another mid-flight, and yes, it was just as good the second time around.
I love a good champagne, but as someone who is very health focused and not trying to mess up my body more than the cabin pressure is, I really liked the non alcoholic options. Across all airlines (not just Cathay) I would like to see more options though.
Dinner Service: East Meets West in the Sky
The first full meal of the flight was served shortly after takeoff, and we both appreciated the flexibility in timing. No one likes to eat just because the cart says so, but Cathay’s crew made it feel like restaurant service in the sky, attentive, never rushed.
I went for the Paneer and Vegetable Makani, and it was unexpectedly flavorful. The paneer was tender, the tomato-onion curry was rich without being heavy, and the pea-studded basmati rice was perfectly fluffy, not an easy feat at altitude.
My husband couldn’t resist the Shrimp Dumpling Noodle Soup, steaming hot with crisp choy sum. True to his love for comfort food, he also ordered the Classic Beef Burger complete with cheddar cheese, bacon, and onion confit tucked into a toasted brioche bun, served with crispy fries. It was indulgent in the best way.
Together, we shared a plate of Spicy Wok-Fried Prawns—juicy, slightly fiery, and perfectly cooked. The meal ended with a beautiful cheese and fruit plate, served with vanilla ice cream. The real dessert was a standout: Green Tea Tiramisu with Strawberries. It was light, not too sweet, and elegant. I take my tiramisu seriously. I’m a tiramisu traditionalist, but the green tea might have broken my rule.
We wrapped up dinner the same way we began. Of course we had to get another round of Cathay Delight.
Breakfast Above the Clouds
When the cabin lights gently came back on, it was time for breakfast.
One of the best things is their flexibility. If you want to sleep until the last minute, you can and they’ll have a light breakfast option for you.
We opted for the Western breakfast, and it hit the spot. It began with a light starter of sliced melon and pineapple, followed by a selection of warm pastries. A smoothie and cappuccino (from an actual espresso machine) added a nice touch before the main course: scrambled eggs, crispy streaky bacon, smashed avocado, and vine-ripened tomatoes. It was hearty and filling—just what we needed to begin adjusting to the time zone shift before landing.
We also had the chance to sample the Asian breakfast, which offered a delicious taste of Hong Kong cuisine in the sky. A small plate of steamed savory dumplings—a nod to the city’s dim sum tradition—reflected Cathay Pacific’s “Hong Kong Flavours” initiative in inflight dining. This was paired with a warm, comforting bowl of chicken congee (rice porridge), a staple breakfast dish across many parts of Asia. A side of fresh seasonal fruit and a cup of JING tea rounded out the meal beautifully.
Mid-Flight Munchies: Snacks on Standby
One of my favorite things about long-haul Business Class is the snack game and Cathay Pacific didn’t disappoint. Throughout the flight, we could request fresh fruit, packaged sweets, ice cream, noodle cups, or even caramel popcorn, which paired surprisingly well with the in-flight entertainment. You could even order the burger if you opted for something else for dinner.
I especially appreciated being able to grab a little bite when I couldn’t sleep, or just wanted to break up the flight with something sweet. And the crew was always gracious in accommodating those requests.
Why Cathay Pacific’s In-Flight Dining Stands Out
After sharing my food experience of the first Cathay Pacific flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Hong Kong, it would be unfair not to mention two of the most fantastic perks of Cathay Pacific’s in-flight dining that make it stand out.
A Wellness-First Approach to In-Flight Dining
One of the most impressive parts of flying Cathay Pacific was their dedication to wellness and dietary inclusivity. They offer a wide range of special meals that you can pre-select before your flight, including options like gluten intolerant, vegan, Jain vegetarian, low-sodium, diabetic, kosher, halal, and more—seriously, the list is extensive.
Even better, Cathay Pacific takes food safety seriously. During our tour of their catering facility, we were blown away by how carefully they prevent cross-contamination, especially for sensitive dietary needs. It’s clear that Cathay isn’t just serving meals; they’re thinking about your health, preferences, and peace of mind, too.
Fresh, Thoughtful, and Flavor-Packed Meals
Cathay Pacific treats in-flight dining like an art form. They’re sourcing quality ingredients and partnering with renowned chefs in Hong Kong to create meals that actually taste fresh, balanced, and—dare I say it—memorable. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of shrimp wonton soup, a nourishing plant-based option, or modern international cuisine, the flavors felt balanced and vibrant—not something I usually say about airplane food.
And of course, it doesn’t hurt that you can pair your meal with a glass of fine wine or even their signature Betsy Beer, specially brewed to taste better at cruising altitude. Yes, really.
Pre-Select Your Favorites with “Choose My Meal”
Now, here’s a feature I wish more airlines offered: Cathay Pacific’s Choose My Meal service. As someone who plans trips with spreadsheets and dinner reservations weeks in advance, being able to select my Business Class meals online before takeoff was a dream come true.
This service lets you choose from a curated selection of dishes, often including Cathay’s signature offerings up to 10 days before your flight. That means no gambling on whatever’s “left over” mid-flight, and no stress if you’re craving something familiar or comforting. I loved seeing options like the iconic shrimp wonton noodle soup and the ever-popular Cathay burger available for pre-order.
Its thoughtful touches like this that make you feel like the airline truly respects your time, taste, and travel rhythm. Best of all, they also accommodate various dietary preferences.
Cathay Pacific Business Class Food Review: FAQs
What aircraft does Cathay Pacific fly to Hong Kong?
Cathay Pacific operates the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-300ER on long-haul routes to Hong Kong, including from major U.S. cities like Dallas-Fort Worth.
Does business class get lounge access on Cathay Pacific?
Cathay Pacific Business Class passengers have complimentary access to the airline’s exclusive lounges. These lounges are available to First and Business Class travelers and eligible OneWorld partner program members.
Cathay Pacific Business Class Food Review: Final Thoughts
On this long-haul, we enjoyed international standards of service and hospitality courtesy of an attentive crew that ensured we landed in Hong Kong refreshed and satisfied instead of feeling like jet-lagged zombies. It wasn’t just about luxury or presentation (though there was plenty of that); it was about thoughtful, flavorful meals that satisfied us at altitude. Real ingredients, balanced menus, flexible service times, and the freedom to grab a snack when needed all came together to make this more than just a flight.
If this is the future of in-flight dining, then count me in. Because, as a Texan who usually boards a plane half-expecting a dry roll and forgettable entrée, this experience reminded me that even 35,000 feet above ground, food has the power to surprise, delight, and connect us to the journey ahead.
Last Updated 2 days ago by Jessica Serna | Published: May 25, 2025
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