ANA First Class: NRT-SFO NH8

Return flight of NH7…

NRT-SFO NH8:
I arrived to NRT via the Narita Express train. Upon entering the check-in area, I was confused as to where the First Class check-in area was located. I soon located it to be at Aisle Z which was behind Aisle A. The ANA Suite Check-In entrance was amazing with a marble walled walkway. Once I entered the doors, I was escorted to a dedicated desk (Z4) to proceed with check-in. They brought a hot towel just as if you were boarding the flight. My bag was tagged and wrapped in plastic to ensure it wouldn’t be damaged. It was a speedy and personalized check-in experience and I was off to my own private security screening. No lines! Once I passed through security I went through Passport Control which didn’t have any expedited line for First Class. I then proceeded to the ANA Suite Lounge. This was the first time I’ve ever been escorted to a seat and offered a drink to be brought to me in a lounge. I ordered a glass of Hibiki on the rocks. After a few bites to eat I decided to go gift shopping at the duty free shops. I was able to leave my bags with the Lounge front desk while I went out to shop. I ended up with multiple bags and it was time to board. I quickly dropped the bags at the gate so I didn’t have to backtrack with them. The gate agent was hesitant at first until she learned I was in First Class with a F on my boarding pass and I was golden. The service provided by the ground staff was awesome. Boarding the flight gave a denied boarding alert as there was a note on my ticket to pickup my shopping bags. Very smart!

Boarding my First Class seat this time I was impressed with a fresh flower on the table. Nice touch! I was greeted by the lead flight attendant and knew it was going to be a memorable flight. She was very personable and was surprised I tried some of the Japanese cuisine dishes on my last flight. After takeoff, I was served a glass of Hibiki and the appetizer plate. Next course was scallops and caviar (1st time) which was a treat plus the Owan soup. Both were tasty. I selected the Wagyu beef for dinner which was awesome! Very nice cut of meat and cooked perfectly. The sauce was a bit buttery to my liking. For dessert, I had Wagashi as well as the Fig and Plum Kouglof. I was so full now! While they were making my bed in the seat next to me I enjoyed a hot green tea. Only 4 seats were occupied in First Class so everyone had a window seat and the middle seat was for sleeping only. Off to bed!

I was able to sleep for a good 5 hours. Prior to landing into SFO I enjoyed crabmeat over steamed rice and a plate of fresh fruit. After landing and clearing customs in 30 seconds, thanks to Global Entry, I waited for my bags. I soon realized I left my jacket on the plane. The ANA agent near baggage claim radioed the ground staff at the plane and they brought my jacket to me within 4 minutes which was amazing since they had customs between the plane and I. They apologized that the flight attendant didn’t check my closet prior to be deplaning.

Great service and memorable trip with ANA! I can’t wait for my next flight 🙂