Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge joins forces with British Airways to launch new gourmet menu

British Airways has announced its new partnership with celebrated, Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, who has designed a number of gourmet food items for the new Speedbird Café menu.

The menu will include signature pies and sandwiches, will be available for pre-purchase for the airline’s Euro Traveller (short haul economy) customers.

The chef and restaurateur previously worked with the airline, devising a menu for long-haul flights as part of its centenary celebrations in 2019.

Dishes have been created with a special focus on British provenance and includes options such as Steak & Ale Pie, Ham Hock & Smoked Cheddar Sandwich and a Spiced Cauliflower Tortilla Wrap, as well as the chef’s own version of a Ploughman’s Sandwich.

Speedbird Café will launch as a pre-order proposition, which will allow customers to customise their journey by purchasing food, drink and inflight retail items up to 12 hours before departure. It also helps the airline in its efforts to reduce onboard waste as part of its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.

The airline will continue to offer complimentary refreshments in Euro Traveller on all flights comprising a bottle of water and a snack, such as a breakfast bar or crisps.

Commenting on the partnership, Tom Kerridge said: “I am truly happy to be working with British Airways again, and to have the opportunity to champion the best of British to so many people.” He added: “A sandwich, made with care and great flavours, can be a perfect meal and I hope the passengers enjoy my short haul menu.”

British Airways will also be introducing another BrewDog IPA called JetSteam, following on from the popular limited edition Speedbird 100 in 2019.

Kerridge, who is best known for his Marlow-based dining ventures including The Hand & Flowers, The Coach and The Butcher’s Tap, also opened Kerridge’s bar & Grill at Hotel Corinthia London in 2018.

In November 2019 Kerridge opened The Bull & Bear at Manchester’s Stock Exchange Hotel, which is owned by former footballers Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs, along with hotelier Winston Zahra.