Thursday, January 24, 2008

Which Outweighs the Other?

Over the years, Fort Myers and the surrounding areas have begun to offer a variety of dining options. Options include chain or franchise restaurants to the local mom and pop establishments. While dining at Carrabba’s for dinner yesterday, I came to the realization that franchise or chain restaurants do not compare to mom and pop restaurants or restaurants who are the only one in the world. In the “One in the World” restaurants as I like to call them, the service is consistent and the food is always fresh. Every time I enter the establishment, I see the same people, the food always taste the same no matter how many times I have ordered it and I leave the restaurant feeling as if I have left a family gathering. At chain or franchise restaurants I can order the same thing, but it is not guaranteed it will taste the same as it did last week. The food is overpriced and not as fresh as it is claimed to be. If you do not agree with me, think of the last time you were disappointed with your meal or when you got your check and you asked yourself, “Why does this food costs so much?” Then think about that last mom and pop restaurant you visited and walked out satisfied. Which one outweighs the other? Just a few thoughts to keep in mind the next time you’re choosing a place to eat dinner.

1 comment:

brandon j said...

Fern Bars (so named because every single one has fake ferns wherever fake antiques are not covering every square inch) have been a peeve of mine for years. Strict regulation of conduct, food preparation and budget become necessary when a restaurant becomes a chain. The unfortunate thing is that none of those help foster a dining experience, rather they establish consistent feedings.

As a small tavern owner, I cringe every time I drive by a Red Lobster or Applebee’s and see a full parking lot. Especially down here in Florida, where our choices are nearly limitless when considering food or drink. Who could possibly want to go to Ruth’s Chris when Chops is nearby? What about Red Lobster vs. The S.O.B?

I will never understand Fern Bars, or their success. I just hope that future generations of Americans will still be able to go to diner one evening and shake hands with the owner of the restaurant as they sit down for dinner.