The Swinging Door
Recently visited The Swinging Door with Kate. Heard the crab cakes were spectacular, to we decided to make the trek across town. Parking was a breeze and it wasn’t super busy.
The waiter was great and attentive, something I really appreciate. I know they work hard, so it’s honestly really a treat when you see someone going out of their way to make sure you’re enjoying your meal.
The crab cakes came quicker than expected. At first pass, I was worried the speed in which they arrived would translate into a mediocre meal, but I was wrong. They were worth all the hype.
Sadly, though, that’s where the positives in this review end. I really wanted to like The Swinging Door, but doors… or more accurately… dividers… are in short supply.
Mid-meal, I had to use the restroom. Fortunately I had already finished my crab cake, as the experience once I entered the Men’s room was beyond the pale. First, there wasn’t even a door concealing the restroom to begin with. One of those “we hope no one peeks” sorta situations I’m really not a fan of. But once I entered, I was simultaneously glad I’d already finished my food, and terrified at what I may be in store for later that evening. Several individual urinals along the wall, with NO DIVIDERS! Now, if we were talking about a trough, I’d let is slide on nostalgia alone. Reminiscing about saddling up after a Twins game in the old Metrodome with my Dad goes a long way. But this was NOT a trough, this was single urinals with no dividers between them. None! Bad enough you’ve got to try and shield with your hands, but imagine one of the kitchen staff trying to fend against some drunk rando on a Saturday night. There’s no way they’re getting out of there unscathed… and that’s my food they’re touching next. There wasn’t even anything to block off the sink. It was horrifying.
Tip for The Swinging Door. Your food is fantastic, but the state of your Men’s room leaves me with grave concerns. Tack up a simple metal divider. Easy.
Sadly, this situation leaves me no choice but to rate the entire experience at ⭐️⭐️
