Curious, why NRT-EWR and not NRT-JFK with NH1010?

That's not an NH operated flight - it's operated by UA. You're not going to get any of the ANA experience on-board, if it matters.
Unfortunately, EWR was $1200+ while JFK was $1400+. I prefer JFK too as I'm a big of fan of Cathay and Asian airlines in general. But it's hard to justify the cost difference. I guess I'm now stuck with United instant noodles for dinner. =( Is it still like that?