While I try to eat healthy, especially when traveling, I make frequent exceptions to this strategy. Dining in first class on most US carriers won’t win many awards, but at least on American, there is the option to pre-book meals up to 24 hours in advance. First class meals on domestic American flights aren’t too exciting, but usually I’m grateful for a meal when sometimes I don’t have time for other options. See Rocky’s post on American meal windows.
New menu item: American Airlines Hamburger
On a recent flight classified as Lunch, I had some new (to me at least) options. American tends to change meals quarterly or so, and this being my first trip of the new year, these choices were new. See above for the menu for my flight between Dallas and Los Angeles. A salad with a side of chicken is nothing new, but this particular option seems a slight variation. Below is an option I’ve had in the past.
Instead, I decided to go for the burger. Here is what was served:
While the execution wasn’t awful, it seems like careless presentation and likely overcooking didn’t help. Burgers are often greasy, but the bun was already pretty wet by the time I picked it up. Plus, cheese was burned onto the plate. The bun was relatively fresh, but pretty dry after reheating. I don’t eat a lot of burgers anyway, and I expect this will be my last one on American. As a comparison, here is a burger I had on United years ago:
I remember enjoying this meal, but it doesn’t look much better than the American version. Maybe I’m more picky now…
Instead of burgers, I’ll plan to book special meals in advance. I’m a fan of Asian Vegetarian meals, often a somewhat spicy option that I often get comments from fellow passengers as it is usually better than standard options.
Other meals on American
On flights between 700-900 miles, there is a snack service offered. This usually consists of a fruit and cheese plate or some other savory option, like a pita with hummus. Prior to this, there are warmed mixed nuts and drinks.
On flights less than 700 miles, a selection of items from the snack basket are available. Typically mixed nuts, pretzels, popcorn, beef jerky, cookies, and various other shelf stable items are offered.
American Airlines Economy meals (for purchase)
On flights over 700 miles, some snack options are available for purchase in the American Airlines economy class cabin. On flights over 1100 miles, light meals are available. These purchases can be reserved in advance, similar to first class meals, but accessing reservations online. Book at least 24 hours out, and pay on board. Executive Platinum members in the economy cabin get a food item and a drink for free.
Late in 2018, American partnered with Zöe’s Kitchen for some new menu items. The Grüben is pretty tasty for a cold sandwich in economy. Not cheap at $10.99, but not that out of line with other options in most airports.
Lessons learned
While glad I tried it, I won’t bother ordering the burger anymore. I’m still happy with most special meals, and even the economy food options on longer flights are pretty impressive. Have you had any food on American flights that you’d recommend?
