Sometimes if you order the a la carte outside the usual dining times, it takes a bit longer to prepare.

Etihad are generous with the food, and extremely flexible. I must say, I have had the wrong order given to me, though, and when I pointed this out, was told by the (French) steward that no, I was wrong, that was exactly what I had ordered. I had to get another steward to change the order for me.

And re the fruit plate. I have noted this elsewhere, but Etihad has simply the best fruit plate in the air. Just gorgeous and lush and delicious. Their ice creams and simple(r) desserts are pretty wonderful too.