We're all familiar with chain restaurants. We pass them every day as we drive throughout our communities. They range from the basic hamburger stand to sit-down "diner food" to specific areas of cuisine. The one thing that all chain restaurants have in common, though, is the idea that no matter where in the country or region (or world, for that matter) they are located, when you dine at one you will be served a meal identical to one that you would order in another location. The food is not necessarily bad, in fact, some of it is downright tasty and nutritious. However, the meals tend toward being bland and uninspired. Even chains that pride themselves on serving meals created with "fresh" ingredients are limited by the corporate-determined menu.
I am not saying that all chain restaurants should be removed. I eat at them, sometimes out of necessity and sometimes because I am craving one of their specialties. But I do try to limit the amount of money that I will give to chains, as I feel it is important to support independent restaurants.