Originally Posted by BOSskier

Hi folks...been a while since I flew United first domestically. Most of last year I was fortunate enough to fly SWISS business and first both intra-Europe and intercontinental.

Anyways, long story short, as someone that eats 99% pescatarian for sustainability reasons, I am disappointed at myself for ordering the Newark beef dish (en route to Houston) in an effort to get some additional protein before I race the Houston Half Marathon on Sunday. It was swimming in water and was about an unappetizing as anything I've ever been served (and tiny!). Brought it back to the galley - the flight attendant acknowledged it was awful - and pro-actively offered that they can only serve what's given to them and I should let United know. I asked for a vegetarian meal in its place and was given first a salad with parmesan cheese on it (which 99% contains animal rennent) and then for a second attempt, a chicken dish - and I could eat the rice/spinach. The salad with it also had parmesan. Yeah, my fault for not sticking with my instincts, but clearly I wasn't being listened to either.

The flight attendant was kind enough and brought a Tapas box (this is where I laugh a bit when United says its aiming for sustainability because of all the non-recyclable containers) and has refilled any beverages when asked. But she is working the entire left side of a 787 and is clearly overwhelmed.

I don't know what to say other than buy a sandwich in EWR? Thanks all for listening. I had hoped for a different experience today after a hiatus from domestic first flights. But the product and service is unpolished at best - at least on this flight.