1. It's too bad PL 5CD didn't work out too well for you. I'm known for being a big proponent of draw. In my occasional home game with friends that are very casual and unsophisticated poker players, we get plenty of action in 5CD. It sounds like your group is a bit more sophisticated and 5CD does drag with solid players.

2. We traditionally order pizzas and the understanding is that everyone except the host pitches in for the pizza and brings other munchies (chips, peanuts, pretzels, etc). The host usually provides soft drinks and beer (it's not a huge drinking crowd, so this isn't too expensive) and it works well for us.