I would only ever do the first show because you get so much extra time at your table to relax and enjoy your desserts before the show. I’m paying for that seat and table so I want the max time to relax and enjoy it!
Same, I did the second seating, and we had to wait for the mass exodus to be over before we could go from the meeting spot to the tables.
The first show started at 9, second at 10:15. Our meeting time was 9:15, but clearing the area (enough) between shows takes much longer. I think we left around 9:30. We got our drinks and food at 9:50, based on my pictures.
My table felt a little rushed, because as soon as we sat down, and the food was on the table, we were asked if we wanted a doggie bag, and our server already left them for us.
I don't remember exactly when this happened, but I think it was 10-15 minutes before the show started, our server asked if we wanted another drink, because they were going to close down the bar.
Let's say we had about 30 minutes in the area before the show. While you probably have the full hour on the first show, giving you more time to eat and drink.
I loved the experience and would do it again. I had a great seat and enjoyed the food, was lucky with my table mates (I was travelling solo), but yeah, I would probably book the early seating.