Being one of the most globally renowned chefs, there’s no doubt that Gordon Ramsay is a seasoned expert in the kitchen. Given the nature of his profession, Ramsay has a profound appreciation for a wide array of foods. However, he does have discerning tastes.
The celebrity chef extensively travels the world, embarking on European culinary adventures with fellow chefs and filming the classic US TV show Kitchen Nightmares, among other endeavors. Ramsay has explored diverse cuisines in various locations over the years. Relying predominantly on air travel to hop from one country to another.
Interestingly, it’s during these flights that Gordon Ramsay draws a firm line when it comes to his culinary preferences
Unimpressed with the typical fare served on airplanes, he adamantly refuses to indulge in it. The general consensus on the quality of plane food is often less than stellar with some even likening it to hospital meals.
While there have been reports of improvements in inflight dining in recent years, Ramsay remains unconvinced and steadfast in his decision to avoid airplane meals. In a candid interview with Refinery 29 in 2017, Ramsay bluntly stated, “There’s no f***ing way I eat on planes.”
Drawing from his decade-long experience working in the airline industry, he expressed a deep understanding of the origin, handling, and storage of airplane food making him particularly averse to consuming it. “I worked for airlines for ten years, so I know where this food’s been and where it goes, and how long it took before it got on board,” he explained.
Freshness and quality evidently top the list of priorities for Ramsay’s discerning palate. He seems well-acquainted with the less-than-appetizing secrets lurking behind the scenes of high-altitude culinary offerings. As a precaution, Ramsay ensures he boards a flight with a satisfied stomach and encourages fellow frequent flyers to adopt the same practice.
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Eat at the bars before you board
During the interview, the 57-year-old chef revealed that he opts for a light meal at the airport terminal, often choosing an Italian bar if available. His preferred airport dining experience includes a selection of Italian meats, a glass of red wine, and a combination of sliced apples or pears with Parmesan cheese. Creating a satisfying pre-flight ritual for Ramsay.
Interestingly, Ramsay has taken his culinary expertise to airport dining. As evidenced by his restaurant, Plane Food, situated at terminal five in London’s Heathrow Airport. In a YouTube video, he explained that the concept behind Plane Food is to offer travelers the opportunity to enjoy a high-quality meal before takeoff. The restaurant is designed for efficiency. Catering to the need for a quick yet delightful dining experience that travelers desire before boarding their flights.
Gordon Ramsay Goes Behind The Scenes At Plane Food
Featuring a menu that encompasses delights such as steamed seabream, a buffalo chicken burger, and lobster linguine, it’s undeniable that Plane Food offers a significantly more enticing dining experience compared to typical in-flight fare. The restaurant takes pride in its efficiency, presenting an impressive express menu that guarantees two courses served in under twenty-five minutes for diners on a tight schedule.
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