I agree that calling NH to get seat assignments done is a good one, especially for people who want to sit together.

I always order Japanese meal on flights to/from Tokyo. They are the only route specific meal offerings in the network, but I could be wrong.

On the UC vs NH Lounge debate: I have stopped using UC altogether if I don’t get access to the United International First Lounge. NH lounge is my choice. There are two of them, and can be crowded depending on the time of the day. Better food and shower amenity.

On using Polaris Lounge: if you have not used it, go about 30 min before boarding. I have found lounge access before long haul international flights to be less appealing to me. Unless I don’t plan to eat and drink on board, it is hard to eat a whole meal before the flight. Lounge is great if I need to work and have decent internet access. I love using the lounge during transit after deplaning the long haul international flights. Take a nice shower, eat a decent meal (because UA’s pre- arrival meals are typically not good), then sleep on my domestic connecting flights.