The food isn't free and you must order the food in-app/online 20 hours or more before your flight leaves. This is probably why your friend thought they didn't have any food, because they indeed don't have any food if you don't preorder (terrible for casual travelers who aren't aware of this). Frankly this is terrible policy by Alaska - they can easily have some sandwiches for sale even if there is wastage but not sure why they don't.

Wifi is free with tmobile etc, bring an ipad etc for entertainment.