I have flown Asiana a fair bit, unfortunately EVA never and I hope to rectify that soon, but NH more times than I can count and as someone who feels Japanese food is pretty much the pinnacle in Asia, I would rate NH catering miles ahead of any of its competitors save JL who do an amazing job also. What is curious, and a topic for another thread, is that the new larger and modern seats are also their least comfortable. Ultimately, for me I think it goes to the concept of what comprises dining. For some the satay starter on SQ is the be all and end all. For me, maybe once a year is plenty. As many people as there are, there will be opinions, but I think when one looks at it more objectively, rating Japanese cuisine as offered by NH or JL behind others is maybe not in line with the popular vote.

I would add that one of the greatest boons to my travel after reaching MM status and no longer doing mileage runs, buying miles, focusing on a specific card etc., and being semi-retired and reasonably comfortable, is being airline agnostic. Some trips I prefer expediency and take a nonstop, others I prefer the layover and route accordingly. Still others I fly for a particular airline's offering. I would gently suggest that emulating that as best you can and within your means will allow for an optimal travel experience.