If it's the control you find clunky, Kodi does support LIRC, and USB infrared receivers are like $20. You should be able to convince it to listen to your TV or universal remote for menu navigation, volume, etc, which will make it feel a lot like a normal/smart TV. I use the Kore app on my phone.
But UI is the Achilles heel of most open source software.
Dunno if I qualify as a problem drinker, but was a daily drinker for decades. I've cut back a lot lately, but there's some things that just go better, as a whole experience, with beer. Spicy noodles. Pizza. Whether through actual aesthetics or years of training, it's hard to imagine a nice slice of pizza without a beer. NA beer is a legit substitute, for me, and I can have one NA beer without immediately wanting a second.