Qatar Airways is set to redefine premium inflight dining with a bold new culinary collaboration. The airline has partnered with Michelin One-Star chefs Jordy and May Navarra to introduce a modern Filipino menu in Business Class. The new offering debuts on Manila to Doha flights from February 2026.
This move reflects Qatar Airways’ continued focus on destination-led dining. It also highlights the airline’s commitment to showcasing regional cuisine through global excellence.
Michelin-Star Chefs Bring Filipino Cuisine to the Skies
Chefs Jordy and May Navarra are known for their refined interpretation of Filipino food. Their cuisine blends heritage recipes with modern techniques. For Qatar Airways, they have created a menu that respects tradition while fitting the demands of high-altitude dining.
Each dish balances flavor, texture, and presentation. The menu reflects Filipino culinary identity in a polished and contemporary form.
A Curated Filipino Menu for Business Class Passengers
The new Business Class menu offers a complete dining journey. It moves from bold starters to comforting mains and refined desserts. Each course highlights native ingredients and Filipino cooking styles.
Signature menu highlights include:
Appetizer
Seared chilled scallops served with mustard leaf, shrimp buro, radish, and salted egg. The dish delivers freshness with deep umami notes.
Main Course
Braised beef short ribs in Tiyula Itum sauce with charred coconut, eggplant, and heirloom Tinawon rice. This dish draws from Mindanao traditions and offers rich, smoky flavors.
Light Option
Pansit noodle ensalada with chayote and pomelo. It provides a crisp and refreshing alternative for lighter appetites.
Breakfast Option
A smooth purée of arroz caldo with chicken, anchovy, and egg. This dish reimagines a Filipino comfort classic for inflight service.
Dessert
Sans Rival cake paired with Philippine chocolate sorbet. The dessert delivers balance with nutty textures and bittersweet chocolate notes.
Focus on Local Ingredients and Sustainability
The menu uses ingredients sourced from Philippine producers where possible. Seasonal sourcing plays a key role in the menu design. This approach supports local agriculture and ensures freshness.
The chefs also adapted recipes to meet inflight preparation standards. Flavor integrity remains intact despite altitude-related challenges.
Enhancing the Qatar Airways Business Class Experience
Qatar Airways Business Class is already known for its premium standards. The cabin offers fully lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and spacious seating. Passengers enjoy personalized service and an award-winning entertainment system.
The addition of a Michelin-star Filipino menu adds another layer of distinction. Dining becomes a core part of the journey, not just a service feature.
A Strategic Step in Global Culinary Partnerships
This collaboration aligns with Qatar Airways’ broader culinary strategy. The airline continues to work with acclaimed chefs from around the world. Each partnership reflects the culture of key destinations on its network.
The Filipino menu marks a strong statement in Southeast Asia. It places Philippine cuisine on a global aviation stage.
Rollout Timeline for the New Menu
The menu launches on Manila to Doha flights in February 2026. From July 2026, the same menu will feature on Doha to Manila services. This phased rollout allows consistent quality and crew training.
More routes may follow in the future, depending on passenger response and operational success.
Strengthening Qatar Airways’ Global Brand
Qatar Airways continues to position itself as a leader in premium travel. The airline serves over 170 destinations worldwide. Its focus on service innovation remains central to its brand identity.
Culinary excellence plays a growing role in that vision. Destination-inspired menus help create emotional connections with travelers.
Filipino Cuisine Gains Global Recognition
This partnership also reflects the rising global profile of Filipino food. More travelers now seek authentic regional flavors. Airlines play a key role in introducing cuisines to international audiences.
By featuring Filipino dishes in Business Class, Qatar Airways supports cultural storytelling through food.
What Passengers Can Expect
Business Class travelers on the Manila–Doha route can expect a refined dining experience. Each dish offers clear flavors and thoughtful presentation. Service timing aligns with passenger comfort and rest.
The menu complements Qatar Airways’ existing dine-on-demand concept. Passengers can enjoy meals at their preferred time during the flight.
A New Benchmark for Inflight Dining
With this launch, Qatar Airways sets a new standard for airline dining in Southeast Asia. The collaboration blends culinary heritage with global luxury.
From February 2026, passengers can experience Filipino cuisine at cruising altitude. The journey promises flavor, culture, and comfort in equal measure.
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