"was" There was a lot to eat and drink. The stuff is uncountable so use "was". (Pretty appalling error above from native speakers)

Honey, There was lots to eat and drink. Plural Count Noun There are a lot of books in your bag. There are lots of books in you bag. Non-Count Noun There is a lot of milk left in your glass. There is lots of milk left in your glass. There was lots to eat and drink..................'to eat and drink' is non-count

I would say "There was a lot to eat and drink"

I agree with the first girl and Eliot

there were lots to eat and drink