Is it worth an extra $50, the diff. in price between senior fare 2nd and senior fare 1st class?
I don't think it is. BUT it really is personal preference. We are very comfortable in 2nd class, others would not be caught dead there.
We went 1st class on our first Eurostar. It was quite nice but in the end, 2nd class would have been fine for the 3.0hr journey. From now on, we only book 1st class if 2nd class is sold out which it rarely is. FYI, our Eurostar had a dining car. A sit-down lunch was 52 euro. Definitely not worth it. Buy from the snack cart or bring your own onboard.
No, the ride doesn't feel that long. I just ate something before.
Especially if you are coming from Paris, go to a grocery store and buy a large picnic for less than half that. It's better food and you'll get envious looks from other travelers.
David, I am going the other way - from London to Paris - any ideas for a London picnic basket?
Second class is very comfortable and the Eurostar meals are terrible (economy airline food is better).
Pick up sandwiches or salads at one of the nice sandwich shops like Pret a Manger or EAT and take them with you.