Qatar Airways only has a limited first class footprint, a handful of flights operated by the Airbus A380s. And while lovely, it’s hardly one of the world’s more premium first class products. It didn’t need to be, because it’s only recently that they put the A380 on Doha – Sydney. Before that it was flying primarily Doha – Paris (8 hours) and Doha – Bangkok (6 hours).

Qatar’s business class, though, is in many ways remarkable and even before the introduction of their new Qsuites this year arguably their A350 business class product was best in the world.

They’ve introduced a new feature for their premium cabins, both business and first class: Pre-Select Dining.

Between 14 days and 24 hours in advance passengers can choose from the selections that are normally offered on their flight.

American Airlines rolled out pre-order dining 5 years ago but only letting you select in advance from the choice that would normally be onboard. That just makes sure you are able to have your first choice, but you’re still choosing from American Airlines food which isn’t very good.

So far the new Qatar pre-reservation service is only available on Doha departures to Europe (on flights over 5 hours); North and South America; Australia and New Zealand; Bangkok and Guangzhou but not other destinations in Asia.

This is hardly an original concept for Qatar. In addition to pre-reserving from the standard meal options, a la American, airlines have offered more extensive menus for pre-selection. Singapore Airlines is known for their Book the Cook service and for departures from Singapore the choices are seemingly never-ending and good. It’s not just choosing in advance what the airline would offer to serve you onboard anyway. Airlines likek EVA and Thai Airways have offered pre-order dining as well.