Premium economy fares are often double the price of regular economy, and passengers increasingly expect more. Some airlines are delivering, especially when it comes to food and beverage offerings. From multi-course meals served on real china to locally inspired dishes and curated wine lists, here’s what’s being served in premium economy on five major airlines, and why it’s worth the splurge.
Emirates
With its cream leather seats and woodgrain finishes, Emirates’ premium economy is one of the most luxurious cabins in its class. Meals are served on Royal Doulton china, and menus always feature a dish inspired by the flight’s destination, such as Thai pepper beef or grilled chicken with mushroom sauce and barley risotto. Three-course meals include salad, cheese, and dessert, with a complimentary wine list to match. For an extra indulgence, passengers can pre-order a vanilla cake and a 20‑cl bottle of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial for $30.
EVA Air
EVA Air, Taiwan’s first privately owned international airline, has been a pioneer in premium economy since debuting the class in 1992. It’s long been praised for comfort, with an industry-leading seat pitch of 42 inches. Also, a brand-new, fourth-generation Premium Economy cabin launches October 3 on the Taipei–Dallas Fort Worth route.
Many routes include the option to pre-select meals. Expect elevated offerings like braised beef short ribs, Japanese A5 wagyu, stir-fried noodles, or traditional Taiwanese-style congee with a wide array of toppings. In between meals, hot snacks and fresh fruit are available on demand. Complimentary drinks include local Taiwanese beer, sparkling wines, plum liqueur, Calpis water, and premium green tea. Even in economy class, Taiwanese snack options abound.
Qantas
Qantas greets premium economy passengers with complimentary sparkling wine before takeoff. Menus include seasonal dishes like braised beef or poached ocean trout, served on custom-designed David Caon tableware. Wines are curated by the airline’s Sommeliers in the Sky program and may include pours like Piper-Heidsieck Brut or bold local Shiraz. On 787-9 and A380 aircraft, passengers can help themselves to snacks from a self-serve bar. Alcohol is served in real glassware, and options include local wines, Sofi Spritz (an Aussie take on an Italian aperitivo), and cocktails.
Singapore
Singapore Airlines is known for its “Book the Cook” service, available in premium economy across 27 departure cities. Passengers can pre-order meals curated by the airline’s International Culinary Panel. Standouts include lamb ragout, beef bourguignon, pork fricassee with lyonnaise potatoes, and Southeast Asian favorites like nasi lemak with rendang chicken or char siew wonton mee. In-flight drink offerings include premium picks like Charles de Cazanove Brut NV Champagne. Snack options are generous and range from sandwiches and muffins to nuts and chips.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic calls its product simply “Premium,” but there’s nothing basic about the experience. Passengers are welcomed with a drink, and meals come with whimsical touches, like airplane-shaped salt and pepper shakers. Entrees range from red Thai curry and chicken tikka masala to tomato mascarpone pasta and venison stew. Drink options include red, white, and rosé wines; premium spirits like Bombay Sapphire gin and Jack Daniel’s; Fever-Tree mixers; and the signature Virgin Atlantic Bloody Mary. There’s even a “Wander Wall” stocked with sweet and savory snacks for mid-flight browsing. For routes between the U.S., Caribbean, and U.K., don’t miss their British Mile High Tea service.