April 25, 2025: The Grumble Club

Folks love to complain.

My hometown has a famous hot dog joint. They serve yummy food, but several years ago, some customers couldn’t get past how the dawgs were made.

The cook lined up buns on his forearm — sometimes five or more at once — and slathered on the toppings. While efficient, the technique probably broke every health code in existence.

But this was the ‘70s and ‘80s. If you ignored the risk of rogue arm hair, you got rewarded with a top-tier weenie experience.

Over time, the arm routine faded away. And the restaurant — which opened in the 1920s — still goes strong today.

The Swissport Lounge at Chicago O’Hare’s Terminal 5 also has a reputation.

What makes it so bad? Guests gripe about the windowless space and the old furniture. And they really despise the sad trombone snack spread.

The funniest review: “It’s like hanging out in the early '90s at your friend’s basement in the house his divorced dad just rented.”

However, the spot has perks. There's complimentary wine and beer — yes, an open bar — plus unlimited munchies and a quiet break from the chaos.

Yet, people still grumble.

I’m a sucker for the weird spots because they’re not so corporate. They have character and stories. And a little grit. Honestly, I hope the Swissport stays the same.

After surviving forearm hot dogs, an outdated lounge feels like a day spa.

Some places are better when they don’t try too hard.