In fact, I _have_ been on DTW-LAX flights with only peanuts in coach and a cold snack in FC-- one of those "between mealtime" flights. Yes, there's something to be said for legroom, but as far as food and the inflight experience, I'd rather pay for something in the airport than be stuck on the plane, even in FC, for an undetermined amount of time.

IMHO, upgrades are a bonus-- granted, a nice, comfortable bonus that keeps us elites coming back, but a safe flight that's on-time is by far the top priority, and I'd think that any airline that can guarantee that, regardless of inflight service, will win a loyal following. Look at Southwest: why do people bounce between the coasts in a flying bus with only peanuts?? Because WN has a great on time record and lots of frequencies.