If you’re an aviation junkie like us, chances are you’ve heard about Qatar Airways new QSuite. It’s revolutionized and challenged traditional business class seats, and has been named World’s Best Business Class by Skytrax. Well, folks, Qatar Airlines has just brought the QSuite to LAX - and we had the honor of going on their inaugural flight from Los Angeles to Doha! That’s right - little ol’ US! We’re still not sure how we even qualified for such an incredible and momentous occasion, but that’s besides the point. Our trip was amazing. The QSuite is amazing.
Here’s why:
DINING
It’s rare that we find airplane food worth writing about, but the meals we ate while flying in the QSuite were consistently amazing. (And considering we were inflight for 16 hours each way, we tried almost everything on the menu!) Qatar Airways has an on-demand a la carte menu, where you can order what you want, when you want it. You say the word and they’ll “set the table” with white linens, fancy plates and flatware, and even a sparkling candle! Sure, the table setting is impressive, but the real winner is the cuisine. Some of the highlights were:
Signature Arabic Mezze
It’s hummus, tabbouleh, and moutabel served with freshly toasted Arabic bread - and it’s absolutely heavenly. We were blown away by how fresh it is, and how flavorful each dip was. It was some of the smoothest, creamiest hummus we’ve ever had.
Steel-Cut Oats Served With Berries And Cream
Who knew oatmeal could be this delicious? We like to joke that you can judge a place based on the quality of their oatmeal, and if that’s the case, Qatar Airways gets five stars. It’s hearty and delicious and has the perfect amount of “sweet”.
Seared Halibut
The main courses that we were served in the QSuite would easily rival a popular restaurant in LA, both in presentation and taste! The Seared Halibut was one of our favorites, served with steamed pumpkins, saffron veloute, and roasted kipflers. The fish was cooked perfectly (how do they even DO that on a plane?!), and the flavors all paired wonderfully together.
DRINKS
A quick flip through the extensive wine and beverage menu, and we quickly realized we were in for a treat. From the welcome glass of sparkling “Atair” Brut Rose, to “Spier” an oaky and zesty South African Chardonnay, to Bobby’s favorite, the Old Fashioned (with Woodford Whiskey and Angostura bitters), everything Qatar Airways serves is premium.
SEATS (OR SHOULD WE SAY… DOUBLE BED?)
To most people, a 16 hour flight sounds a lot like hell. And we’ve been there. There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a cramped space for a significant amount of time. All you want to do is lay down, stretch out, snuggle up with a comfy pillow, and SLEEP. On the QSuite you can do just that, and it makes all the difference in the world.
Not only do the seats lay completely flat, but if you’re traveling with your significant other, they turn into a double bed. We’re serious. It’s amazing. Not only that, you can close the doors on either sides of your seat for total privacy. Turn on the “DND” (Do Not Disturb) button, grab your eye mask and earplugs, and you’ve got the dream airplane situation - literally!
AMENITIES
Cozy pajamas from The White Company, 21.5-inch entertainment monitors (with almost limitless entertainment options), and BRIC amenity kits stocked with Castello Monte Vibiano skincare products… the amenities in the QSuite are top notch. Even the restrooms are glitzy and clean - and surprisingly spacious!
STAFF
We can’t say enough about the Qatar Airways staff. From the warm greeting when we checked in, to calling us by name in-flight (and even giving us recommendations and advice on our stay in Qatar), they truly went above and beyond in every way. We felt special. We felt valued. We felt like family. It’s not often you can say that about an airline.
There’s a reason why Qatar Airways continues to lead the way as one of the best airlines in the business, and we get it now. They understand their customers, and they aim to please. We saw this firsthand in the QSuite, and we can’t wait to see how they continue to innovate and perfect their in-flight experiences. They’re killing it already!
If you want to fly in the QSuite, but are hesitant due to the price, there are ways to cut the cost.