Beyond the Pretzels, These Airlines Stand Out for Food and Drinks

Airline food has come a long way from mystery meat and bags of pretzels. Today, many travelers look forward to what's being served almost as much as where they're going.

A new survey from the travel rewards platform point.me found that seasoned travelers are paying close attention to what's served at 35,000 feet, and some airlines are standing out above the rest. The survey of 556 experienced travelers ranked everything from business-class meals and wine to airport lounge food, coffee and cocktails.

Emirates, Air France and Delta Lead the Pack

When it comes to dining in the sky, Emirates topped the rankings for business class meals, breakfast, economy meals and cocktails. Its restaurant-style service, chef-designed menus and polished presentation continue to make it a favorite among frequent flyers.

Meanwhile, Air France proved that French wine culture doesn't stop at the airport gate. Travelers ranked the airline first for both the best business-class wine selection and the most generous pours.

"I knew Air France had a serious wine program, but more than doubling Emirates on pour size?" said Jimmy Yoon, Head of Points Intelligence at point.me. "Our members have sat in enough business class cabins to know the difference between a great wine list and a great wine experience. Air France clearly delivers on both fronts, all while staying true to its heritage by exclusively serving French wines."

On the domestic side, Delta Air Lines excelled in several categories, taking the top spot for overall coffee, economy snacks and even high-protein snacks favored by travelers using GLP-1 medications.

The Airport Lounge Is Becoming Part of the Journey

For many travelers, the best meal of the trip may be the one before boarding.

The survey named American Express Centurion Lounges the best airport lounges for food and drinks, thanks to elevated dining, craft cocktails and locally inspired menus.

Travel expert Bella Bucchiotti still remembers one airport meal years later.

"I still talk about the hanger steak and Napa Cabernet I had at the Amex Centurion Lounge in San Francisco. It was fresh, beautifully prepared, and miles ahead of the usual airport options. I'd happily arrive early just to eat there again."

Yoon says Centurion Lounges changed expectations for airport dining.

"Centurion Lounges were the first airport lounges started by a bank, and they remain the best," he said. "They're known for having a great food selection and bar program. It's hard to beat."

Cocktails and Champagne Are Elevating the Flying Experience

The survey also found that premium beverages have become an increasingly important part of the travel experience.

While Emirates earned the overall top ranking for cocktails, travelers who fly more than 10 times a year favored Virgin Atlantic.

"Makes sense that Virgin comes out on top for cocktails among frequent flyers," Yoon said. "It's just a fun brand. The onboard bar on the 787 in Upper Class is a nice touch, especially on daytime flights back to the U.S. from London. People can get up, mingle and have a drink. Not many airlines offer that."

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He also praised the airline's thoughtful approach to travelers who don't drink alcohol.

"Virgin Atlantic put real effort into non-drinkers too, with a solid mocktail selection for people who'd rather skip the alcohol."

Air France also earned praise for another perk many travelers don't realize exists.

"Regardless of your cabin, even in Economy on long-haul flights, Air France offers complimentary Champagne," Yoon said. "Don't be afraid to ask for a glass right after takeoff; it's a standard perk."

Great Food Is Becoming Part of the Adventure

According to Adam Morvitz, CEO and founder of point.me, today's travelers increasingly see onboard dining as part of the overall vacation experience.

"There's something about a great meal or a glass of amazing wine in the air that just hits differently than it does on the ground," Morvitz said. "It's part of the adventure."

He believes points and miles programs are helping more travelers enjoy premium food and beverage experiences.

"For a lot of travelers, points are what unlocks these experiences," he said. "They can mean the difference between sitting in economy with a bag of pretzels and truly starting the trip from the moment you board."

Expert Tips for Better Food and Drinks While Flying

Frequent travelers also shared a few strategies for improving the in-flight dining experience.

Instead of paying premium prices for airport food, Yoon recommends packing food from home or stopping at a favorite bakery or sandwich shop before heading to the airport, provided the food complies with TSA rules.

Planning to sleep through meal service? Ask if your meal can be held until later. Some airlines are happy to accommodate the request, especially in business and first class.

And for soda drinkers, there's an easy trick.

"The standard pour of a drink is usually just one half of a can," Yoon said. "Many flight attendants are happy to leave the whole thing with you if you politely ask."

Some Foods Are Better Left at Home

Not every food-related survey result was positive.

Asked which carry-on food should never be brought onboard, respondents overwhelmingly chose tuna sandwiches, followed by hard-boiled eggs and soup. The message from experienced travelers was clear: when flying in close quarters, choose foods with consideration for your fellow passengers.

Good food won't make a delayed flight disappear, but it can make the journey a little more enjoyable. And if this survey is any indication, more travelers are choosing airlines and even airport lounges with the menu in mind.