ANA First Class Review: Tokyo to New York

The ANA Suite Lounge at Tokyo Haneda Airport 

ANA’s premium journey starts before boarding — at the ANA Suite Lounge at Tokyo Haneda’s Terminal 3. This flagship lounge is exclusively reserved for First Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying in First Class on partner airlines.

Upon entering, you’re greeted with a courteous bow and a warm welcome by uniformed ANA attendants. The lounge interior design reflects minimalist Japanese aesthetics with modern touches — think muted lighting, textured wood, and ambient music creating a tranquil pre-flight experience.

Food & Beverage Offerings

The food spread is extensive and curated like a fine-dining buffet. Guests can indulge in:

• Freshly made sushi (rotating daily)

• Wagyu beef curry rice

• Handmade udon and ramen

• A-la-carte options like grilled mackerel, tempura, and teriyaki chicken

• International offerings: pasta, roasted vegetables, and artisan bread

The alcohol selection includes Japanese premium whiskies like Yamazaki 12, sake options from regional producers, and a well-stocked bar of wines and champagne (usually Krug Grande Cuvée).

Amenities and Comfort

The lounge offers private shower suites, massage chairs, and a business center equipped with printers, semi-private work pods, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Power outlets are available at every seat, and attendants frequently clean the space for immaculate presentation.

Passengers are also offered priority boarding passes, and lounge agents coordinate gate transfers efficiently. The Suite Lounge is calm, never overcrowded, and has panoramic views of the tarmac — perfect for aviation photography lovers.

This lounge alone rivals many First Class onboard experiences, making it an outstanding beginning to the Tokyo to New York ANA journey.

Cabin and Seat Review: The Suite 

ANA’s First Class product is named “The Suite”, introduced with their revamped 777-300ER configuration. The Tokyo to New York service uses this new-generation cabin, featuring just 8 First Class suites in a 1-2-1 layout.

Privacy & Layout

Each suite is fully enclosed with sliding privacy doors — a rarity in First Class cabins. The high walls ensure complete seclusion, ideal for sleeping or working without interruptions. The center suites come with an adjustable privacy divider for couples.

Seat Features

• Dimensions: 35 inches wide, 78 inches in length (fully flat)

• Materials: Soft leather, plush padding, ergonomic design

• Entertainment: 24-inch 4K monitor with noise-canceling headphones

• Storage: Deep side compartment, under-ottoman bin, and dedicated wardrobe

• Lighting: Adjustable reading and ambient lighting with night mode

Each suite also includes a tablet-style controller for managing seat position, lighting, and entertainment, along with two USB ports, one AC outlet, and wireless charging.

Turn-Down Service & Bedding

Once ready for sleep, the crew transforms your seat into a fully flat bed. The bedding, provided by Nishikawa Sangyo, includes:

• Memory foam mattress (soft or firm)

• Fluffy down duvet

• Pajamas and slippers

• Two pillows: one firm, one soft

Cabin noise is minimal, and temperatures are well-regulated. The flight includes two turndown services, one after departure and one mid-flight, depending on your preference.

Comparative Note

Compared to Singapore Suites or Emirates First, ANA’s product feels more understated but more functional and efficient. It prioritizes rest, space, and comfort over glitz — a practical luxury experience for long-haul flyers.

Dining at 35,000 Feet: An Elevated Culinary Experience 

ANA’s First Class dining is curated by Michelin-starred chefs, combining kaiseki-style Japanese cuisine with gourmet Western options. Menus rotate seasonally and are influenced by regional ingredients from across Japan.

Welcome & Drinks

Immediately after boarding, guests are greeted with a warm towel and a glass of Krug Champagne. The drink menu includes:

• Krug Grande Cuvée

• Hibiki Suntory Whisky

• Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo Sake

• Umeshu (plum wine)

• ANA Signature Cocktails

Japanese Kaiseki Meal

The Japanese set meal is beautifully presented and includes:

1. Zensai (Appetizers): Sea urchin tofu, grilled duck, and simmered vegetables

2. Mukozuke: Seasonal sashimi

3. Takiawase: Braised seasonal vegetables

4. Yakimono: Grilled tilefish or Wagyu beef

5. Shokuji: Steamed rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables

6. Dessert: Matcha ice cream or wagashi sweets

Each course is served individually with ceramic dishware, enhancing the fine-dining experience.

Western Gourmet Option

The Western menu includes:

• Lobster bisque or caviar starter

• Grilled tenderloin steak with truffle mashed potatoes

• Roasted vegetables and warm bread basket

• Cheese course with brie, gouda, and camembert

• Seasonal fruit and chocolate mousse for dessert

Mid-Flight Dining

The “Anytime Menu” allows you to order on-demand items such as:

• ANA Signature Ramen

• Rice balls

• Curry rice

• Fresh fruit

• Chicken katsu sandwich

All meals are served on crisp white linens, and service is paced at your convenience.

Inflight Service, Amenities & Entertainment 

ANA’s crew are professionally trained in “omotenashi”, the Japanese principle of wholehearted hospitality. From greeting to disembarkation, the service is measured, respectful, and proactively attentive.

Service Highlights

Flight attendants remember your name, track your preferences, and never disturb unless requested. The ratio of one flight attendant per two First Class passengers ensures personal, swift service.

Every request, from drink refills to adjusting cabin temperature, is met with a sincere smile and quick response. Japanese etiquette, like bowing before service and thanking passengers personally, is strictly followed.

Amenity Kits

The First Class amenity kit (by Globe-Trotter or Samsonite) includes:

• The Ginza premium skincare set (cleanser, toner, cream)

• Eye mask, earplugs, hairbrush, and toothbrush

• Moisturizing socks

• ANA-branded pajamas (cotton, unisex)

• Slippers and shoehorn

Shaving kits and feminine hygiene products are available in the lavatories, which are cleaned frequently and equipped with bidet functions, another ANA signature.

Inflight Entertainment

ANA’s “ANA SKY LIVE TV” and on-demand library include:

• 350+ movies and shows (Japanese, Hollywood, Korean, etc.)

• 60+ audio programs

• 3D flight maps

• Real-time camera views (nose, belly, tail cams)

Headphones are Sony noise-canceling, and the touchscreen remote is responsive. Each suite also has a literature rack with Japanese and English newspapers.

Wi-Fi is available for purchase, with ANA offering complimentary passes for First Class passengers (valid for the entire flight).

Conclusion: Is ANA First Class Worth It? 

To summarize this ANA First Class review, the Tokyo to New York experience aboard the Boeing 777-300ER exceeds expectations in every major category: comfort, privacy, service, and dining. It may not have gold-plated suites like Emirates or double beds like Singapore Suites, but what ANA delivers is a refined, restful, and authentically Japanese experience that is second to none.

If you value understated elegance, flawless service, and a culinary experience that genuinely competes with Michelin-starred establishments, ANA First Class is a strong contender. The lack of flash is compensated by meticulous attention to detail — in everything from seat design to pajama fabric and sake selection.

Frequent flyers on transpacific routes especially appreciate ANA’s consistency, making it a preferred choice for business travelers. Award availability for ANA First Class can be found via Virgin Atlantic Flying Club or United MileagePlus, and represents great value for points.

Here’s a final breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• True privacy with fully enclosed suites

• Best-in-class Japanese and Western cuisine

• Outstanding ground services and lounge

• Top-tier crew and personalized attention

• Lavish bedding and high-end amenities

Cons:

• Wi-Fi speed can be inconsistent

• No onboard shower or bar like ME3 carriers

• Limited availability for First Class bookings

If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey, ANA First Class on the Tokyo to New York route should be at the top of your list. With award-winning reliability and subtle luxury, it's one of the best First Class products flying today.