CM 235
PTY-ORD
Depart: 634pm (schedule) 652pm (actual)
Arrive: 1206am (schedule) 1158pm (actual)
Equipment: 737
Seat: 2E (Business Class)
Load: 12/12

We arrived at Gate 33 to see that all carry-ons were being searched and people were being patted down. A few minutes later boarding began. As on our inbound, there was no one at the door to greet us so we just took our seats. 10 minutes later menus were offered. That was the only crew interaction before take off. No PDB or amenity kit was offered. Shortly after take off drink orders were taken. 50 minutes after take off not a single person had been served. On a 5 hour night flight when people want to sleep slow service is unacceptable. 55 minutes out my sister complained that she was very thirsty and no FA had been spotted in over a half hour.
One passenger pressed a crew call button and an FA walked out of galley, glanced in the cabin and returned. Unacceptable in J. About a second later an FA came out offering hot towels. I'd rather have my drink first. They were mint scented and were refreshing. Hot towels were collected and blue table clothes were set down. I'd rather have my Diet Cole on an uncovered table if it would just come. Finally, exactly one hour out the first drinks arrived. The Big Bang Theory came on randomly and unexpectedly with no announcement that the entertainment was beginning and I missed 5 minutes trying to get my earphones in and volume to the right setting. Once the meal service began it was good. A meal box was placed in front of me containing lemonade, margarine, and a chocolate cupcake with plastic ware. A few minutes later the hot main was served. It was roasted chicken and pasta. The chicken was a little on the dry side but it was good. FAs passed thru the cabin to collect empty cups and refill drinks. The cabin lights never went off for some reason even though it was late and people wanted to sleep or enjoy the movie.
There was no personal video monitors or in seat USB ports. One of the 2 if not both is necessary. I tried getting some sleep on the flight and I woke up after an hour to a dimmed cabin. The screens were up and most passengers appeared to be sleeping despite the screaming toddler in row 1. I requested some water and nuts and enjoyed a nice snack.
Landing was smooth and the fight was nice.
Verdict: For this medium haul flight, my experience was pretty good. I do believe that CM needs to standardize its service offerings and ensure that night flights have fast service delivery.