Air Canada is enhancing its in-flight dining experience by partnering with Michelin-starred Chef Masaki Hashimoto to offer traditional Japanese Kaiseki cuisine on all flights between Canada and Japan. This new offering will be available to passengers in Signature class starting March 1, 2025.
A Taste of Japan in the Sky
Chef Masaki Hashimoto, the owner of Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto in Toronto, is known for his expertise in Kaiseki cuisine. His carefully crafted menu, served in traditional Japanese dishware, is designed to recreate the authentic Kaiseki dining experience for travelers, making them feel as though they are dining in a top-tier restaurant while in the air.
“I’ve always dreamed of offering an authentic Japanese dining experience to travelers,” said Chef Hashimoto. “Partnering with Air Canada allows me to combine the two places I now call home—Japan and Canada.”
What is Kaiseki Cuisine?
Kaiseki cuisine, or kaiseki-ryōri (懐石料理), is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal originally served during a tea ceremony. Over time, it has evolved into a refined dining experience, focusing on seasonal ingredients and intricate presentations.
The airline’s onboard menu will reflect these principles, with dishes made from fresh seasonal ingredients, offering passengers an authentic taste of Japan during their flight.
In-Flight Kaiseki Menu
Air Canada’s new in-flight menu will feature a rotating selection of six Kaiseki dishes. The meal will include:
- Zensai (appetizer)
- Komono (side dishes)
- Oshokuji (main dish) served with rice and miso soup
This introduction of Kaiseki cuisine signals Air Canada’s commitment to improving its in-flight dining experience, aiming to provide a higher level of customer satisfaction for those flying between Canada and Japan.
A Step Toward Elevated In-Flight Dining
While Air Canada may not currently be among the top in-flight dining providers in 2024, this partnership with Chef Hashimoto underscores the airline’s dedication to enhancing its passenger service and offering a memorable and authentic culinary experience for travelers.
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