I for one have no problem with the way the lounges are typically set up.

I believe the concept is intended to provide a place where qualifying guests can go for a quick breakfast, snack, drink, or place to relax and read the newspaper, etc. Those looking for a more "substantive" meal, drink, meeting area or whatever can find that elsewhere in the hotel.

To me the CL is a handy (and basically free) alternative to the restaurant, bar, or lobby.... but not a replacement for any of those.

Now, that said, a (hopefully isolated) instance where I do have a problem with the CL is what I ran into at MSP Airport one Sunday night. The CL was being used as "dumping area" for stale hors doerves, deserts, etc. left over from weddings which took place the night before.