I've used a few lounges at ORD T5, all of them are dumps (LX,EK,andSK) and I ended up leaving and eating at food court.
For the upcoming trip from ORD, I'm planning to use Polaris by checking in early and go through T1. For me the main thing isn't the food, but shower, after the whole day simmering in Chicago a fresh shower will help you sleep better onboard.
Will NZ ever consider flying to YYZ nonstop?