British Airways First Class Dining Inspired by Celebrity Cruise Line Consulting Chef, Michel Roux

How pleasantly surprised I was upon opening the First Class menu on my flight back to JFK from London to read "Today, your menu has been inspired and developed with the help of British Airways culinary council member Chef Michel Roux of The Waterside Inn, Bray, Berkshire."

For years, Chef Roux has been associated with the exceptional cuisine available on all Celebrity ships. His approach to contemporary dining, with emphasis on fresh ingredients, healthy and flavorful meals, has been a very successful marketing tool for Celebrity Cruise Lines. Now his winning style is available in-flight with British Airways.

Along with several other recognized chefs, British Airways has initiated a new approach to catering and service. Offering the ultimate in haute cuisine, diners in First Class can choose from a seven course a la carte menu or more casual bistro-style dishes. Any item from the menu can be ordered at any time during the flight, in effect allowing the passenger to decide when and what to eat. With only 14 passengers in First Class, the airline has managed to create an atmosphere similar to a top restaurant or a private club.

Appetizers include Loch Fyne smoked Salmon, or Warm Red Onion and Goat Cheese Tarte followed by Cream of fresh Asparagus Soup. Main courses included Baked Salmon Fillet and Dill Crème Fraiche, Grilled Fillet Steak with Parsley Butter and wilted Spinach or Thai Green Curry. Lighter options included Chicken and Mushroom Manoucher or freshly cooked pasta with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.

Desserts included a hot chocolate fondant, fresh fruit and cheese or Michel Roux"s own Lemon Tart followed by coffee, espresso or cappuccino.

The wine cellar was exceptional. Selections included Louise Pommery 1989 Champagne, Chateau Gaudrelle 1998, Vouvray Sec, and Gevrey-Chambertin, 1999, Frederick Magnien Burgundy.