Brussels Airlines is introducing a new gastronomic experience for Business Class passengers on long-haul flights from January 2025. The menu has been carefully concocted by Michelin-starred chef Arabelle Meirlaen, of the eponymous restaurant in Marchin. She becomes the 15th Michelin-starred chef in a series of Belgian top chefs, with whom the airline has partnered to deliver exquisite cuisine since 2013. The star chef from the province of Liège succeeds chef Michaël Vrijmoed.
“Brussels Airlines is proud to be Belgium’s flying ambassador, showcasing the best our country has to offer,” said Philip Mortier, Inflight Product Manager, Brussels Airlines. “Onboard, we bring passengers the flavours of Belgium through carefully crafted cuisine. We’re excited to partner with Chef Arabelle Meirlaen, whose creative and intuitive approach highlights the beauty of vegetables and spices. Starting this January, her seasonal menus will rotate every three months. Passengers will also enjoy a selection of regional beers, including a special seasonal brew ‘Arabelle’ created by our Star Chef herself.”
Arabelle Meirlaen is a Michelin-starred chef and holds the distinction of being the longest-standing female starred chef in Belgium. In addition to her one star, she has also earned the Michelin Green Star, recognising chefs who champion sustainability through resource preservation, biodiversity, reducing food waste, and reducing the reliance on non-renewable energy.
“My philosophy is rooted in creating wholesome and healthy food,” said Arabelle Meirlaen. “The garden is my endless source of inspiration, where nature’s beauty shapes my vision. To me, cooking mirrors life itself: vibrant, flavourful, textured, and infused with love and deep emotion. It’s my heartfelt wish that every Brussels Airlines guest experiences that as well. Becoming part of the airline’s prestigious tradition of Star Chefs isn’t just an honour – it’s the fulfilment of a personal dream. I’m thrilled to share this journey and my passion with travellers from around the world.”
What started more than 10 years ago with gourmet menus by Michelin-starred chef Geert Van Hecke has grown into a true tradition for travellers on intercontinental flights with Brussels Airlines. A Belgian Star Chef is invited to create a three-course menu based on typically Belgian recipes and ingredients. As in previous years, the accompanying Belgian and international wines are carefully chosen by Master of Wine Jan De Clercq, while beer sommelier Sofie Vanrafelghem selected the Belgian, local beers.
