I just flew this plane today, I highly don't recommend sitting in row 1 or 2.
I sat in row 4 and I felt sorry for those passengers sitting in row 1 and 2, the noise and light from the galley is a huge issue. During the entire flight they never closed the curtains to the galley and the bright lights would have been a major issue for me. In row 4 I could hear the noise in the morning when they started to prepare breakfast service. The further back the better. Row 8 is not high on my list, they store the carts right next to that seat, but its much better than row 1.

I was not that impressed with the 787-9 I prefer the 787-8. I loved the seats but prefer the configuration and cabin of version 1. I also missed having the walk up bar even though I hardly use it. I think American failed on this aircraft, no walk up bar, no dividers for the seats in the middle. The lighting in the galley is too industrial "bright"when the curtain is open it even bothered me in row 4. I prefer the 777-200, 777-300 and the 787-8 over this aircraft.

FYI: The flight attendants told me they hate this plane and if you don't like it please send an email to customer service.