I have found the food ex DUB to be excellent, that said I do generally get my first choice due status
EI answers to the IAA not the CAA like BA, so there are different rules, there is a no obstruction rule at landing/takeoff, no laptops, no large headphones, no blankets etc as well as the dimmed cabin lights. This is standard for EI for all the years I have flown with them 7+, I've been shocked at the very relaxed approach I've seen on UA and B6, bags under seats at exit rows and so on