Alaska Airlines has announced the official launch of Chef’s (tray) Table, a new First Class dining program that will feature seasonal menus created by celebrated chefs from across the West Coast.
The initiative debuts with a menu crafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Brady Ishiwata Williams, known for his work at Seattle’s Tomo restaurant.
The airline’s new culinary program builds on the success of its prior collaboration with San Francisco-based chef Brandon Jew, whose Cantonese-inspired menu was first introduced in 2023. Following strong guest feedback, Alaska has expanded Jew’s spring menu to include more East Coast routes originating from San Francisco. He now joins the official Chef’s (tray) Table roster as the program evolves into a rotating chef series.
“We know that food connects people to the world, different cultures and a sense of place. The Chef’s (tray) Table brings that connection to life onboard, before our guests even reach their destinations,” said Traynor-Corey. “We’re thrilled to kick off our next culinary chapter with chef Brady, who brings the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and his Japanese American heritage to the skies in a way that’s both innovative and delicious.”
Chef Brady’s menu highlights influences from his Japanese American background and his roots in the Pacific Northwest. Before founding Tomo in 2021 in Seattle’s White Center neighborhood, he rose through the ranks of the culinary world, including time as executive sous chef at a Michelin-rated Brooklyn restaurant and later as executive chef at Seattle’s Canlis, where he earned a James Beard Award.
Tomo, named in honor of his grandmother Tomoko Ishiwata Bristol, reflects the chef’s personal and culinary heritage. According to the airline, the new partnership brings his distinctive approach to West Coast cuisine to the inflight experience.
Alaska Airlines plans to continue rotating chefs and menus seasonally, with a focus on showcasing regional talent that represents the diversity and culinary richness of the West Coast.
The Chef’s (tray) Table program is now live onboard select First Class routes.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Alaska Airlines. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
