Local Favorites

Nothing is better than a locally-owned restaurant. There is no better restaurant to work for, either. Few people understand that locally-owned restaurants and bars have fewer rules and regulations to abide by. Now, don't get me wrong, there are always going to be standards, but there are less and less corporate incentives to "up-sell," an there is definitely a hometown feel. This is one editorial writer who agrees with me. It seems like certain restaurant chains are all the same. It seems like the food tastes the same, regardless of the state or city you are in. That's because it IS the same. These restaurants are sent pre-made sauces, veggies, and even certain meals. They want their food to taste the same way around the country/world. Locally-owned restaurants can differ in taste from day to day. Some other perks to dining at a local place is the atmosphere. Odds are, the owners are much more involved in their own restaurants, than some manager would be about a chain they're not even really involved in. Locally-owned restaurant owners understand that every customer counts, and they are definitely more apt to remember your name, your drink, and what you typically like to eat. Certain chain restaurants are delicious, but they are corporate entities with no face to identify with. Locally-owned restaurants are usually staffed with good, hard-working people, who truly understand that the customer comes first. Oh, and the last perk of a locally-owned restaurant...if you wanna buy your proficient waitress a drink after her shift, there is no corporate rule prohibiting it...just a thought for the next time you go out, hehehe.
If you are traveling, pay attention to the parking lots. Are a lot of locals at the Applebee's in the center of town, or are they on the outskirts of town in a little cafe with a studdering neon light? Locals can usualy tell you a lot about a place.