I think it would have been better if you just skipped the first meal (but am unsure if you can get proper sleep if others are eating).

CI already serves a slightly less formal service meal for red-eye, but not all the customers like reduced service meals so it's not to the standard of the Japanese carriers.

Mainland carrier services probably a notch down but the time saving may be worth it.

Yes, 359 is the best plane for CI in both Business and Premium Economy. The 2-3-2 layout for Premium Economy is industry leading.