Flying with Singapore Airlines (SIA) means more than just reaching over 70 destinations worldwide. It’s also about savouring iconic Asian comfort dishes, even on short flights. SIA’s in-flight offerings feature more than 40 regional dishes on rotation, such that you can have a taste of Asia before you even touch down.
Here are four must-haves when it comes to Asian cuisine. Check out what you can expect when you try them on board, and where you can find great examples of these dishes when you travel.
The springy delight of Japanese yakisoba
This hearty fried noodle is relatively modern, having first appeared in Japan in the 1930s. It’s since become immensely popular throughout the country and available at all hours of the day.
Singapore Airlines offers its own take on the dish – tossed with its umami black sauce, slivers of meat and vegetables. This dish is available to Premium Economy and Economy class passengers.
Planning a trip to Tokyo? When you’re in Tokyo, head to local favourite Mikasa in the Jimbocho district. It’s a hole-in-the-wall joint in Tokyo’s haven for used books. Seat yourself at one of a mere dozen counter seats, and peruse its pared down menu featuring just pork or seafood yakisoba.
The highlight here is the rich, savoury and sweet yakisoba sauce and the addition of a runny egg omelette that adds a creamy element to the dish. Unlike most yakisoba stalls, Mikasa uses handmade noodles that offer a delightful bite. 2 Chome-24-3, Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Creamy butter chicken with rice from India
Better known in New Delhi as murgh makhani, butter chicken stands as one of India’s most iconic culinary exports – you’ll have no trouble finding it anywhere from London to Los Angeles. Premium Economy class passengers on Singapore Airlines flights can likewise enjoy this rich and creamy butter chicken served atop steamed basmati rice. There’s also a side of curried vegetables and a sharp, tangy achar, or picked vegetables.
Planning a trip to New Delhi? Stop by the family-friendly casual dining spot, Dhabha – A Punjabi Theme in the Rajouri Gardens neighbourhood. They serve up a version of the dish that’s as bold and colourful as its interiors. The butter chicken here hits the mark with its rich and creamy curry, but what truly distinguishes it is the smoky flavours that emerge from the tandoori grilled chicken. A-5, Block A, Vishal Enclave, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi
Classic comfort in a bowl of Korean rice porridge
There’s perhaps nothing that feels more like a hug than a warm bowl of congee. Economy class passengers seeking classic comfort food can look forward to a steaming bowl of Korean-style congee aboard selected Singapore Airline flights. The rich, warming congee comes served with minced meat and pickled vegetables, as well as an Asian-style salad.
Planning a trip to Seoul? If you find yourself in South Korea during winter, warm yourself up with a bowl of congee at Bonjuk. This chain restaurant has proven immensely popular with Seoulites and offers an extensive menu that features rice porridge topped with anything from abalone to kimchi and octopus.
Another popular menu item is the pumpkin and red bean congee, a unique combination seldom found abroad. And with several outlets in the city, you’ll never be too far from a quick, comforting meal. 6 Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul and other locations
Singapore’s iconic fragrant coconut rice
Nasi lemak is a fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sides like fried chicken, fried egg, anchovies, peanuts and a sweet spicy sambal sauce. It’s without a doubt one of the most beloved dishes in Singapore. Naturally, Singapore Airlines also offers this fan-favourite to its customers across all cabin classes.
Planning a trip to Singapore? While popular for breakfast, you can find hawker stalls in Singapore selling this comfort dish at all hours. But if you’d like to try a more upmarket, gussied-up take on the dish with premium ingredients, you’ll want to check out Coconut Club.
This restaurant in the heritage Kampong Glam district offers a hefty portion of spiced and fried organic chicken served atop a steaming portion of coconut rice along with essential sides. You can also add on other popular Malay sharing dishes like beef cheek rendang and chicken satay. 269 Beach Road, Singapore
SIA offers an inclusive selection of more than 20 in-flight meal options suitable for those with special dietary requirements and religious restrictions. Parents can also choose from a range of special in-flight meals for their children below 12 years old. For more information about these meal offerings, check out the Singapore Airlines website.
