A few responses:
- Fair point on the cantrip causing surface effects
- A saving throw (all or nothing) each round for surface damage would go a long way, I think.
- Higher ground imposing advantage is fine
- AI going after squishy targets is good AI. Don't you go after mage opponents first too?
- Unless they put in super food recipes (hopefully not), food will increasingly diminish in effectiveness for healing as we gain levels, while spells will increase in effectiveness.
- Unlimited long rests is ridiculous. Good suggestions all around.