I took a $5,400 Emirates business-class flight that famously serves 3-course meals from Dubai to NYC - and it was the best food I've ever had on an airplane

Harrison Jacobs/Business Insider

Spoiler: It did not disappoint.

• For my 14-hour flight to New York from Dubai, I decided to fly business class for $5,400 operated by Emirates Airlines.
• I was primarily excited to fly business class - and Emirates - for the first time because it meant that I would get to experience Emirates' dining, both in its pre-flight lounge and in the air.
• The airline is well-known for its extravagant first class and business class perks. I assumed that would mean the food would be gourmet fine dining.
• While the food can't compete with a Michelin-starred restaurant, it was the best food I've experienced both on an airplane and in an airport lounge.

To say I was excited to fly business class for the first time would be an understatement. Add in the fact that my ticket was with Emirates, rated the fourth-best airline in the world, and I was ecstatic.

Emirates is well-known for its extravagant first class and business class perks. I assumed that would mean the food would be gourmet fine dining.

It did not disappoint.

The business class lounge alone has five main dining areas, three "concept areas," and partnerships with luxe brands like Moët & Chandon and Voss water. The flight featured three-course white tablecloth meals with craft cocktails and a selection of four wines.

Here's what it was like: