I remember similar experiences with VS LGW-EWR in Upper Class about the same time PAXboy. Their first aircraft was a -200 series (RG) as was the second (IN) and both had a lounge area at the rear of the upper-deck with a sort of semi-circular settee. I do remember the food was very good and I recall the ice cream as well!
During the '90's VS did operate a 747-100 (IA) named latterly 'Spirit of Sir Freddie' which had previously been with Highland Express (G-HIHO), a company which of course played a part in the creation of VS.