Cathay Pacific business class now offers a liquid meal option, a first for many travellers. On a London to Hong Kong flight, the reviewer found the drinkable dinner surprisingly satisfying, leading to the best sleep ever on a flight.
A unique dining option at 35,000ft
Before boarding, the reviewer consulted medical specialists, including cardiologist Dr Aseem Malhotra, who noted that cabin pressure can affect digestion and described most plane food as 'toxic and ultra-processed'. This piqued curiosity about the liquid meal.
On the outbound flight, the reviewer experienced the new Aria Suites on a Boeing 777-300ER. Cabin crew manager Sia said the seats are popular and booked out on every leg. The seat features a simple touchscreen system for reclining, easy-to-find charging points, and a cupboard with noise-cancelling headphones.
Solid food and sleep on the outbound
The amenity kit from Bamford included a balm similar to a luxurious Vaseline. However, pyjamas are no longer provided, and the entertainment selection seemed heavier on Asian films than Hollywood releases. Complimentary Wi-Fi worked well.
Dinner included grilled tuna sashimi with pickled mustard sauce and pan-fried scallop and prawn in XO sauce. After about six hours of solid sleep, the reviewer enjoyed stir-fried egg noodles for breakfast and arrived in Hong Kong feeling fresh.
Trying the liquid meal on the return
On the return flight, the liquid meal was ordered. Sia mentioned that few passengers request it. The tray arrived without the usual menu, presenting a pumpkin soup, a carton of milk, orange juice, and a creamy tofu dessert. A glass of Bordeaux accompanied the meal.
The reviewer slept better than ever on a flight, waking an hour and a half before landing for a liquid breakfast of congee, plain yoghurt, and watermelon juice. Upon landing in London, the stomach felt better than usual after a long-haul flight, with no stuffed feeling.
Cost and verdict
While one flight is not a scientific experiment, the reviewer was surprised by how much they enjoyed eating this way. Cathay Pacific business class return flights from London Heathrow to Hong Kong start from £3,700 in December, with fares varying by date and availability.
