Gordon Ramsay Plane Food
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
The Gordon Ramsay Plane Food in London, England, is a unique restaurant located in Terminal 5 of Heathrow Airport and operated by world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay. It opened its doors in March 2008, simultaneously with the opening of the terminal, and was Ramsay's first venture into the world of airport dining. The restaurant, located in the airside area – accessible only to passengers after security control – was built with an investment of £2.5 million and can accommodate approximately 175 guests. The concept aims to provide travelers with a high-quality culinary experience that stands out from typical airport food, while also meeting the needs of people in a hurry.
The atmosphere at Plane Food is modern and stylish, characterized by an open kitchen and elegant design with a marble bar, large windows overlooking the airport grounds, and an artwork by Barnaby Gorton hanging above the bar. The decor is designed to allow for both a relaxed meal and quick dining before departure. A special feature is the absence of gas appliances for safety reasons – instead, electric stoves and a microwave are used, making food preparation in an airport environment unique. The open Asian bar, where chefs prepare dishes in front of guests, and a glamorous cocktail area with internationally inspired drinks add an additional dimension to the restaurant.
Culinary-wise, Gordon Ramsay emphasizes quality and variety at Plane Food, without relying on heavy sauces or excessive complexity. Popular dishes include the Short Rib Beef Burger with Chimichurri mayonnaise, known for its bold flavor and juicy texture. Also highly regarded is the Butter Chicken Curry, a spicy dish that Ramsay himself favors and reflects the global inspiration of the menu. For breakfast lovers, options like Eggs Royale, featuring perfectly poached eggs with a touch of luxury, are available. A special feature is the "Grab & Go" offering, where passengers can take pre-made meals like a full English breakfast box or a dessert like the Chocolate Brownie to enjoy on board – an innovation that considers travelers' time constraints.
The restaurant caters to a wide audience: from families to business travelers to individuals seeking a special experience before their flight. Children benefit from the "Ramsay Kids" menu, which is complimentary during certain periods like school holidays when an adult orders a main course – highlighting the family-friendly nature. The service is often described as fast, friendly, and attentive, which is particularly appreciated in an airport setting where time is crucial. The staff is trained to provide both leisurely dining and efficient service, depending on the guests' needs.
The development of Plane Food also reflects Ramsay's vision of revolutionizing airport dining. After a comprehensive renovation in 2017, the concept was modernized with a new Asian bar, a revamped cocktail menu, and improved technology for more convenience. Although plans for expansion to the US – such as Chicago or Los Angeles – were not realized, the Grab & Go concept made its way to Hong Kong International Airport in 2019, showcasing the international recognition of the concept. Financial challenges, such as tax debts in 2009, were overcome, and the restaurant has established itself as a staple of Terminal 5.
Overall, Gordon Ramsay Plane Food is a place that raises the standard for airport dining. It combines high-quality cuisine with practical solutions for travelers and an atmosphere that blends elegance and efficiency. Critics praise the quality of the food – like the Caesar Salad as a "revelation" or the Apple Crumble as "fantastic" – and emphasize that the restaurant surpasses the average of other airport options. For passengers using Heathrow Terminal 5, it is an opportunity to start their flight with a touch of Gordon Ramsay's culinary expertise – whether through a relaxed meal on-site or a gourmet experience taken on board at 40,000 feet.
