Indiana restaurant embraces 'worst table in the joint'
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FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Klemm’s on Wells is a breakfast and lunch joint that Fort Wayne, Indiana, residents have probably passed by dozens of times. It’s a seat-yourself type of place, and also at your own risk.

At 1429 North Wells Street sits Klemm’s Kafe. It’s been around since 1985 and is a staple for many. With a capacity of only 41 people, orange juice isn’t the only thing being squeezed.

If you end up at a two-top table directly to your left when you walk in, take caution. The table isn’t everyone’s jam. So much so that Klemm’s put a sign on the table to address it.

Years ago, the staff would need to reach over the table to grab ketchup packets and pie. The packets led to the owners placing the sign.

“One day our boss reached over somebody to get a ketchup packet and it went down a lady’s shirt. No harm no foul. She loved it. She left him a note, her phone number, and a tip. So we kind of made a joke out of it since then,” said Teresa Rivers, an assistant manager and waitress at Klemm’s.

So what makes the table so bad?

“That table down there gets in the way. We walk by it every time. People stand there to cash out and come in and make orders,” said Rivers.

“Cause you’re crossing paths, and nobody can get through. And they’re like, “Excuse me, excuse me,” said Eva Aikins, a manager and waitress at Klemm’s.

The caveat? While customers say the service at the entire restaurant is great, this spot gets you the most coffee refills which is outlined in the warning.

“You will not miss filling coffee. You will not miss a pour. People come in now and want to sit there. That’s their table,” said Aikins.

So is it the worst table? We asked a few customers at Klemm’s. A few said they had no problems sitting there. While others said they avoid it.

“Somebody will eventually take the table. So it often gets sat. So we really appreciate those who sit at the table,” said Aikins.

While the jury is out if it’s truly the worst table, you do get to have many conversations, a full cup of coffee, and a slight breeze from the door.

One thing is for sure, Klemm’s on Wells is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and the reputation for the place remains intact.

“When you leave here, we want to make your day better. We like to have you full and smiling,” said Rivers.

“It’s a hidden little gem in Fort Wayne. And when our customers come in they come in to feel the love and the atmosphere. And we love to love on our customers. And they come just for that,” said Aikins.

If you happen to choose the table with your garbage plate and a cup of joe: Be brave. Be bold, and embrace the “worst table in the joint.”

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