So just out of curiosity I searched for SFO-EWR in mid September and it brought up some $329 flights, UA233 and UA637, both listed as Boeing 777s.
But those are Basic Economy fares. If I choose economy, the price is $380, still not too bad.
They offer Economy Plus Essentials and Economy Plus Enhanced for $150 or $250 each way.
No mention of the hot meals, just the seat, extra checked bag and in the case of the Enhanced, Premier Access and United Club access as well as 500 extra miles.
So elites who are Gold or greater should just choose the Economy seats and should get Economy Plus automatically, with the meal, on this "premium transcon" service or whatever they're going to call it?