Flying with El Al is more than transportation; it’s a cultural journey in the sky. As Israel’s flagship airline, El Al is known for its strict kosher standards, authentic Israeli flavors, and attentive hospitality. For travelers who keep kosher or simply want a taste of Israel while en route, dining with El Al offers a unique experience.
This guide combines an overview of what you can expect from El Al’s kosher cuisine with insights shared by a friend who recently flew on one of their international routes.
What to Expect from El Al’s Dining Service
El Al’s in-flight dining balances quality and tradition. Key highlights include:
- Authentic Israeli and Jewish dishes such as hummus, challah, and gefilte fish
- Exclusively kosher-certified meals, with options for every dietary need
- Renowned Israeli wines, including vintages from the Golan Heights and Galilee
- Snacks and sweets like rugelach, honey cake, and date truffles
- Special touches for Shabbat and Jewish holidays, adding cultural warmth to the experience
The airline takes pride in showcasing Jewish culinary traditions while ensuring all meals are kosher.
A Passenger’s Perspective
A friend who recently flew from New York to Tel Aviv shared his impressions of El Al’s dining service. He described the flight attendants as warm and welcoming, greeting passengers with “Shalom” and “Bruchim Haba’im,” and taking the time to explain the meals and their cultural significance.
On his flight, he enjoyed a roasted chicken entrée with matzo ball soup, paired with an Israeli white wine. Dessert included a honey cake, which he noted as a thoughtful nod to Jewish holiday traditions. He said that, while the experience may vary from flight to flight, these touches made him feel connected to Jewish customs even while traveling.
This account reflects one traveler’s experience but aligns with general reports of El Al’s kosher dining standards.
Menu Highlights and Ingredients
Across all classes, El Al emphasizes authentic Israeli and Jewish flavors. Common menu items include:
- Starters: chopped liver pâté, gefilte fish, hummus, stuffed grape leaves
- Mains: roasted chicken, beef brisket, or salmon dishes
- Sides: tabbouleh, matzo ball soup, fresh challah bread
- Desserts: rugelach pastries, honey cakes, and date candies
- Beverages: Israeli wines, arak, kosher grape juice
Many ingredients are sourced from Israel—olive oil from the Galilee, goat cheeses from local farms, and pomegranate syrup or date honey—giving meals an authentic regional flavor.
Kosher Meal Options for Every Traveler
El Al accommodates a wide range of kosher needs:
- Glatt kosher meat dishes
- Dairy and pareve meals
- Vegan and raw food plates
- Fruit platters
- Kids’ and infants’ meals
- Medical or special dietary meals are available by request.
Meals can be pre-ordered to ensure your preferred kosher option is available.
Cultural and Holiday Touches
El Al sometimes incorporates Jewish traditions into onboard service, especially on flights near holidays:
- Kosher wines and grape juice for Shabbat
- Challah bread rituals before meals
- Honey cake during Rosh Hashanah
- Festive sweets for Purim
Passengers may notice these touches differently depending on their flight route, class, and timing, but they contribute to a sense of continuity with Jewish life.
Dining Across Cabins
El Al maintains kosher standards across all service levels:
- Economy: Traditional entrees, salads, breads, and snacks
- Business Class: Enhanced kosher dishes with premium wine pairings
- First Class: Multi-course bespoke kosher menus
- Lounges: Fresh hummus, pita, Israeli wines, and pastries
Final Thoughts
Dining with El Al is not just about the food—it’s an introduction to Israeli and Jewish culinary traditions. From gefilte fish in economy to multi-course kosher menus in first class, the airline emphasizes flavor, culture, and hospitality.
Based on my friend’s firsthand experience, El Al offers thoughtful, kosher-compliant meals that can feel both authentic and comforting. While specific dishes and holiday touches may vary by flight, travelers can generally expect high-quality kosher cuisine paired with attentive service.
So, on your next El Al journey, come ready to enjoy a culinary experience that brings a taste of Israel to the skies.
New York Jewish Travel Guide
