Chain vs. indie restaurant. The chain is easy to deride, since there are so many bad ones. Yet, chains have the power to be good as well. I don’t exactly consider myself a “foodie,” but I feel I have a highly experienced palate (I lived in Japan for 8 years and ate the best stuff there) and definitely appreciate quality. So I hold up the following for praise as offering some genuinely great food. (I’m also gluten-free, so that counts too). Some may be unexpected! Without further ado:
Cracker Barrel. You can get an absolutely solid, healthful, delicious meal here for cheap. Overall, the quality-to-price ratio is close to unbeatable. The grilled catfish is impeccable. It’s perfect. I typically get that with the turnip greens, sweet potato, and cole slaw. Of course, this restaurant is everywhere and is a godsend on the road. The service is quick and pleasant as well. It’s a massive, massive chain that really delivers for the masses.
Cheesecake Factory. The crazy thing about this one is that you can get something pretty damn close to fancy dining for a reasonable price. Here’s something that blew me away recently: I got a burger, they had gluten-free buns, and it was frickin’ amazing. It was the three-bacon one. Beef done truly medium-rare, melted in my mouth. The corn cake appetizer is really delicious and intelligently put together. Their steaks are great. The Jamaican shrimp is a real treat. CF represents.
Famous Dave’s. Although my fave place for ribs and brisket in Indy in Hank’s Smoked Brisket (an indie joint, and amazing–go out of your way to get it!), Famous Dave’s is a chain with consistently quality food. Their ribs are slightly inconsistent (sometimes a little dry), but they can be an A+ when on target. The thing is, that is true of ribs in general (even Hank’s can be off on rare occasions), so it’s not really damning with faint praise or anything. Their chicken, pulled pork, and brisket are all excellent (but need I say that Hank’s brisket is the best ever?), and they have a really great selection of sides that are nicely done. And it’s all reasonably priced.
Longhorn Steakhouse. When you don’t want to splurge on Ruth’s Chris (I’ve actually never been there, but I’ve heard it’s pricey), this will get you a pretty damn good steak for a doable price.
So, that’s my selection for you. I really don’t eat out all that much, and I do go to indie restaurants much more–Thai food is my go-to.
Now gimme yours!