Flying might not be as luxurious an experience as it once was in its heyday, but for those who fly business class, there are still several privileges that make a long-haul flight a pleasurable experience. One of these is access to a selection of excellent meals during the course of the flight.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is no exception and for the month of November until December, business class passengers flying to and from North America are in for a gastronomic delight as the country’s flag carrier collaborates with chef Tina Legarda of Bamba Bistro to further elevate its in-flight menu served during its non-stop flights from Manila to Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Honolulu, Vancouver, and Toronto.
“With the increasing consumer confidence in international and domestic travel, we continue to look for innovative ways to elevate PAL’s in-flight dining experience. This partnership with chef Tina supports PAL’s thrust to become a more customer-centric brand that upholds the highest standards of service, safety, and security to travelers,” said PAL president & COO Capt. Stanley K. Ng.
Ever since it first opened its doors in the early 2010’s, Bamba Bistro has been one of the culinary jewels along Aguirre Ave. in Parañaque — a stellar feat considering the numerous excellent dining choices located along the avenue. Having worked in the kitchens of renowned chefs such as Jessie Sinsioco, Billie King, and then in Singapore with Mario Batali, chef Tina adds a playful modern twist on her family’s beloved recipes, turning them into certified crowd pleasers.
She has taken this creative approach in designing PAL’s business class menu which offers familiar flavors in new forms that both delight and excite the palate. The Filly and Maria’s Toast are takes on a Filipino classic breakfast staple, Adobo and longganisa in a single bite.
Meanwhile, the Kalabasa Soup and the Luvziminda salad prepare the appetite for the culinary treat ahead.
Diners can choose from several main courses, from the fresh pan-fried Snapper to an Indonesian-inspired Crab Mi Goreng, to a twist on the chicken inasal with the Nasi ng Bayan, or the lip-smackingly rich beef Short Ribs. Other dishes include a Breakfast Burrito, Milk Fish Inasal, and a Gyusilog for those who are on a morning flight. To end the meal on a sweet note there’s the Banana Budino Trifle.
“I believe that PAL and Bamba operate with the same mission in mind: to create a remarkable experience and provide a unique “very Filipino” service to all our customers. A warm and well-thought-out experience that they are going to share with their family and friends back home,” chef Tina shared. “When I was designing the menu, I wanted anybody, regardless of nationality, to taste the quality comfort food and feel the warmth that Bamba is really known for, in every meal.”
“As the country’s flag carrier, we are proud to bring the Filipino culinary legacy to the skies by partnering with culinary pros like chef Tina,” says Ria Domingo, PAL vice president of marketing. “Beyond flying the public, it is truly inspiring to work closely with and provide these promising local chefs an impactful platform to showcase their talent and the taste of Filipino cuisine on the global stage.”
The collaboration between PAL and Chef Tina is part of the many developments and innovations that PAL is whipping up for its passengers. Earlier this year, PAL also worked with JP Anglo and is looking to onboard more gourmet masters to heighten business class flights in the future.
