If you are flying in Y, definitely look into AS (Alaska). While it is on a smaller plane (738), the service will generally be much better. Even though you have to purchase food, the buy-on-board options are much better on AS. AS will provide you will several beverage services on the way. And the AS staff tends to be friendly and more pleasant.

Otherwise, if you are definitely doing AA and flying Y, then definitely take the West Coast to Hawaii because it will shorten your time in Y (and as noted earlier, the Y service is virtually non-existent).

Finally, if you are purchasing a ticket from the US West Coast to Hawaii, I suggest looking into HA (Hawaiian Airlines). Hawaiian still serves free meals in Y during the meal times (but not on late-night flights). They play Island music and videos. And their staff is very friendly.