Restaurants have gotten so expensive……also recycling and phone apps (2 Viewers)

[Todem]

Following up taking my dad to Olive Garden today after red lobster last month. He really likes these chains with bread. Can’t wait to see what this costs.

We won’t step foot into either of those chains.

God awful food.

This is one part of food and restaurants I find fascinating,

I haven't been to a Red Lobster in 20 years (and guess I won't be going soon) and haven't been to Olive Garden in 10 years.

But that's because I think there are some better alternatives where the food is less bland and it feels more entrepreneurial or local and the vibe is much better.

But I don't think they're God-awful or offensive as some seem to do. I'm way more " , there are better options". But many are more passionate in their dislike and that's interesting to me.

In south florida we have amazing seafood and italian.

Yeah they are god awful in comparison lol.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California pizza kitchen

I have been enjoying them since the mid 80's. They have a few frozen in grocery stores, but often thin crust which i don't love.

They have undergone many menu changes over the years and quite a few of my old favorite items have been "retired." (mooshoo calzone, peking duck pizza, jerk pizza, greek, pesto shrimp, etc)

Thanks. I've had California Pizza Kitchen a few times. Thought it was fine. Certainly not offensive. But would much prefer a local place.

 

[Drunken knight]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California pizza kitchen

I have been enjoying them since the mid 80's. They have a few frozen in grocery stores, but often thin crust which i don't love.

They have undergone many menu changes over the years and quite a few of my old favorite items have been "retired." (mooshoo calzone, peking duck pizza, jerk pizza, greek, pesto shrimp, etc)

Thanks. I've had California Pizza Kitchen a few times. Thought it was fine. Certainly not offensive. But would much prefer a local place.

back then, it kind of was.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California pizza kitchen

I have been enjoying them since the mid 80's. They have a few frozen in grocery stores, but often thin crust which i don't love.

They have undergone many menu changes over the years and quite a few of my old favorite items have been "retired." (mooshoo calzone, peking duck pizza, jerk pizza, greek, pesto shrimp, etc)

Thanks. I've had California Pizza Kitchen a few times. Thought it was fine. Certainly not offensive. But would much prefer a local place.

back then, it kind of was.

It was. It was one of my first restaurant gigs. Very early on in its existence, when they had just begun expanding. They had a really good thing until they got too big. Which is what usually happens to them all.

 

[Drunken knight]

yep

 

[Capella]

Back from the OG. Old man was happy. Kid played that disgusting table game thing and ate 6 breadsticks. The salad was fine. Breadsticks didn’t seem the same to me but who cares I guess. They give you so much of everything. I felt like it was very expensive but that’s life.

My wife did a grocery delivery order and got us crab legs for tonight so I’m coming out way ahead anyways.

 

[Terminalxylem]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Regionality is funny. They have 185 locations in 32 states and 10 countries and used to have more. They’re in airports as well. I would have thought everyone would know what they are.

Yep. And I thought everyone identified them as "CPK".

They and Roy's are the only chains we go to with any frequency. I think their food is OK, and a few items are darn right tasty.

Unfortunately, those always seem to get axed from the menu

 

[Terminalxylem]

Compare their calories to Arby’s or Wendy’s and they are very similar for a typical meal.

Sure. I'd expect a Panera salad to be similar to a Wendy's Salad. Most people are not getting salads at Wendy's. But even if they are, they'd be similar.

How are they "one of the worst"?

Panera chicken Caesar has 540 calories and 32g of fat. A Wendy’s single has 524 calories and 29g of fat.

He’s not comparing salads to salads, he’s saying that Panera on average isn’t any more healthy than Wendy’s or other fast food

But a Wendy's single is a snack, not a meal. A combo meal at Wendy's and you're looking at 1500-2000 calories. And if that combo meal is a single you're still starving afterwards because that burger is tiny and unsatisfying.

As opposed to a chicken Caesar? That’s filling you up?

How fat are y’all? I kid..I kid…sorta

I think that's honestly the bigger issue. Getting back to a time when a 400 calorie salad filled you up is a worthwhile goal I think.

Or realizing its OK not to be gut-bustingingly full after every meal.

Hara hachi bun me.

 

[Terminalxylem]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California pizza kitchen

I have been enjoying them since the mid 80's. They have a few frozen in grocery stores, but often thin crust which i don't love.

They have undergone many menu changes over the years and quite a few of my old favorite items have been "retired." (mooshoo calzone, peking duck pizza, jerk pizza, greek, pesto shrimp, etc)

Same. They've also retired the chopped veggie salad, farmer's market soup, and Santa Fe power bowls. I always assumed it was because the public didn't care for healthier menu options, even though CPK tries to portray themselves as more healthful than other chains.

But now I see they've gotten rid of some, ummm, less healthy stuff, too.

 

[STEADYMOBBIN 22]

I don't really like mashed potatoes

Not sure I have ever heard those words spoken before

Technically this may still be true

 

[Scoresman]

I’ll take the 500 calorie burger over the 420 calorie salad all day. At least with the burger you’re getting the good dopamine hit.

 

[Osaurus]

Back from the OG. Old man was happy. Kid played that disgusting table game thing and ate 6 breadsticks. The salad was fine. Breadsticks didn’t seem the same to me but who cares I guess. They give you so much of everything. I felt like it was very expensive but that’s life.

My wife did a grocery delivery order and got us crab legs for tonight so I’m coming out way ahead anyways.

Just got this shirt

 

[Snoopy]

Back from the OG. Old man was happy. Kid played that disgusting table game thing and ate 6 breadsticks. The salad was fine. Breadsticks didn’t seem the same to me but who cares I guess. They give you so much of everything. I felt like it was very expensive but that’s life.

My wife did a grocery delivery order and got us crab legs for tonight so I’m coming out way ahead anyways.

Just got this shirt

 

[Pip's Invitation]

The BWW bartenders I know are actively trying to trade out of their shifts on M/W to avoid the $19.99 "all you can eat"* boneless wing deal they have going on. Apparently it's bringing out the worst in society and the juice ain't worth the squeeze.

Who coulda seen this coming?



*no to-go boxes so folks are hiding them I'm paper towels they get from the bathroom. Gawd!

Did they learn NOTHING from Red Lobster?

 

[BoltNlava]

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California Pizza Kitchen. SoCal bro gonna SoCal.

Overall, being in the business, I don’t go out to eat much at all.

Chain restaurants are pretty bad. Other than CPK, I could not tell you the last chain restaurant I’ve been in. And CPK is for the kid and somewhat for my parents. I’d rather go to a fast food joint and take that home or eat it in the car. But I almost never do that. My wife gets fast food more than I do or my intake of it would zero. I’m lucky enough to have some locally owned places near me that are decent to very good. And still mid priced. A new Italian place just opened near me and it’s quite good. Very happy about that

Thanks. What is CPK?

California pizza kitchen

I have been enjoying them since the mid 80's. They have a few frozen in grocery stores, but often thin crust which i don't love.

They have undergone many menu changes over the years and quite a few of my old favorite items have been "retired." (mooshoo calzone, peking duck pizza, jerk pizza, greek, pesto shrimp, etc)

Thanks. I've had California Pizza Kitchen a few times. Thought it was fine. Certainly not offensive. But would much prefer a local place.

I gotta say regarding Panera, if you want to spend 15$ on a breakfast sandwich and leave hungry then this IS the place. As an example: This is the first time ever I bought a quarter of a breakfast sandwich. Egg was actually bigger than the bread! The tiny bits of ham and 1/4 slice of bread was a question mark on my end..on the plus side I think they used a WHOLE slice of cheese..so whew! Just a big NO THANKS from me. Also this was in 2020. I'd imagine if I ordered it now I'd really be kicking myself. Do note: It was good. What there was of it.

 

[Terminalxylem]

Ate a nice dinner for my wife's birthday, at a restaurant in Waikiki.

4-course prix fixe (x2) + 2 glasses red wine + tip = $380

She drank the wine. I considered a mixed drink, but mai-tais were $35!?!

 

[nirad3]

But aren't there mom and pop sandwich shops that serve salads and soups and sandwiches in every town in America?

For sure. Always prefer Mom and Pop sandwich over a chain.

My post was a response to "I can't think of a worse chain to eat at." That seems amazing to me. I can think of many chains I'd rather not go to over Panera.

Well Panera is the worst I've had in terms of chains. I mean even at Applebee's you can get a halfway passable burger and fries.

At Panera, your options are bad soup/sandwich and salad, with a side of chips or barely edible baguette. The soups are frozen and reheated, and you can tell. The salad has wilted lettuce and not enough dressing. It's hospital food.

Sure, in terms of calories it may be one of the better options, but in terms of quality, it's the worst out of a mostly bad bunch of chain restaurants.

I had never been to Panera before they introduced their flatbread pizzas. I'm a sucker for any kind of pizza and they were pimping their "Pick Two" which included a salad and I do like a good chicken Caesar, so I gave it a try. I probably went there 5-6 times while they had this combo and was absolutely stuffed each time. The flatbread was quite tasty and the portion size for the salad was impressive. I hadn't gone in maybe 8-9 months and decided to give it a try and everything had gone in the crapper.

Interesting. Maybe that's my disconnect. I haven't been in a few months.

Yeah, I feel like places like Panera at one point were ok, but have been just awful more recently. Was forced to eat at one over the holidays this past year and couldn't finish it.

Chains in general have been going downhill for a while.

My domestic partner and I took my son out to one of those outdoor mall places to return a pair of shoes for my daughter, saw a movie and then wanted to get some grub. BJ's Pizza (our initial choice) was absolutely packed and told us it was a 30-45 minute wait. No thanks. Opted for TGI Friday's (yes, I guess they still exist) which was next door and got seated right away.

Nothing leapt out at me menu-wise, but I ended up settling on a "pick 3 apps" type of thing, and I think it was like $16.99. I got mozzarella sticks and a double order of boneless wings (OK, chicken nuggets ).

The "wings" were actually pretty good and the mozzarella sticks were probably some of the best I've ever had, honestly.

My wife got a burger (she was hankering for some meat ) and a margarita. She was super-impressed with the burger and she's not a "burger type" My picky son just wanted some fries and a Coke. I got an iced tea.

I think the total was under $65 with tip, not bad at all. I was pleasantly surprised. But yes chains are hurting.

So you took your domestic partner and your wife?

One in the same... let's just say things are... complicated.

 

[FiredMartz]

But aren't there mom and pop sandwich shops that serve salads and soups and sandwiches in every town in America?

For sure. Always prefer Mom and Pop sandwich over a chain.

My post was a response to "I can't think of a worse chain to eat at." That seems amazing to me. I can think of many chains I'd rather not go to over Panera.

Well Panera is the worst I've had in terms of chains. I mean even at Applebee's you can get a halfway passable burger and fries.

At Panera, your options are bad soup/sandwich and salad, with a side of chips or barely edible baguette. The soups are frozen and reheated, and you can tell. The salad has wilted lettuce and not enough dressing. It's hospital food.

Sure, in terms of calories it may be one of the better options, but in terms of quality, it's the worst out of a mostly bad bunch of chain restaurants.

I had never been to Panera before they introduced their flatbread pizzas. I'm a sucker for any kind of pizza and they were pimping their "Pick Two" which included a salad and I do like a good chicken Caesar, so I gave it a try. I probably went there 5-6 times while they had this combo and was absolutely stuffed each time. The flatbread was quite tasty and the portion size for the salad was impressive. I hadn't gone in maybe 8-9 months and decided to give it a try and everything had gone in the crapper.

Interesting. Maybe that's my disconnect. I haven't been in a few months.

Yeah, I feel like places like Panera at one point were ok, but have been just awful more recently. Was forced to eat at one over the holidays this past year and couldn't finish it.

Chains in general have been going downhill for a while.

My domestic partner and I took my son out to one of those outdoor mall places to return a pair of shoes for my daughter, saw a movie and then wanted to get some grub. BJ's Pizza (our initial choice) was absolutely packed and told us it was a 30-45 minute wait. No thanks. Opted for TGI Friday's (yes, I guess they still exist) which was next door and got seated right away.

Nothing leapt out at me menu-wise, but I ended up settling on a "pick 3 apps" type of thing, and I think it was like $16.99. I got mozzarella sticks and a double order of boneless wings (OK, chicken nuggets ).

The "wings" were actually pretty good and the mozzarella sticks were probably some of the best I've ever had, honestly.

My wife got a burger (she was hankering for some meat ) and a margarita. She was super-impressed with the burger and she's not a "burger type" My picky son just wanted some fries and a Coke. I got an iced tea.

I think the total was under $65 with tip, not bad at all. I was pleasantly surprised. But yes chains are hurting.

So you took your domestic partner and your wife?

One in the same... let's just say things are... complicated.

I thought Domestic partner was a term used by gay guys instead of husband?

 

[nirad3]

But aren't there mom and pop sandwich shops that serve salads and soups and sandwiches in every town in America?

For sure. Always prefer Mom and Pop sandwich over a chain.

My post was a response to "I can't think of a worse chain to eat at." That seems amazing to me. I can think of many chains I'd rather not go to over Panera.

Well Panera is the worst I've had in terms of chains. I mean even at Applebee's you can get a halfway passable burger and fries.

At Panera, your options are bad soup/sandwich and salad, with a side of chips or barely edible baguette. The soups are frozen and reheated, and you can tell. The salad has wilted lettuce and not enough dressing. It's hospital food.

Sure, in terms of calories it may be one of the better options, but in terms of quality, it's the worst out of a mostly bad bunch of chain restaurants.

I had never been to Panera before they introduced their flatbread pizzas. I'm a sucker for any kind of pizza and they were pimping their "Pick Two" which included a salad and I do like a good chicken Caesar, so I gave it a try. I probably went there 5-6 times while they had this combo and was absolutely stuffed each time. The flatbread was quite tasty and the portion size for the salad was impressive. I hadn't gone in maybe 8-9 months and decided to give it a try and everything had gone in the crapper.

Interesting. Maybe that's my disconnect. I haven't been in a few months.

Yeah, I feel like places like Panera at one point were ok, but have been just awful more recently. Was forced to eat at one over the holidays this past year and couldn't finish it.

Chains in general have been going downhill for a while.

My domestic partner and I took my son out to one of those outdoor mall places to return a pair of shoes for my daughter, saw a movie and then wanted to get some grub. BJ's Pizza (our initial choice) was absolutely packed and told us it was a 30-45 minute wait. No thanks. Opted for TGI Friday's (yes, I guess they still exist) which was next door and got seated right away.

Nothing leapt out at me menu-wise, but I ended up settling on a "pick 3 apps" type of thing, and I think it was like $16.99. I got mozzarella sticks and a double order of boneless wings (OK, chicken nuggets ).

The "wings" were actually pretty good and the mozzarella sticks were probably some of the best I've ever had, honestly.

My wife got a burger (she was hankering for some meat ) and a margarita. She was super-impressed with the burger and she's not a "burger type" My picky son just wanted some fries and a Coke. I got an iced tea.

I think the total was under $65 with tip, not bad at all. I was pleasantly surprised. But yes chains are hurting.

So you took your domestic partner and your wife?

One in the same... let's just say things are... complicated.

I thought Domestic partner was a term used by gay guys instead of husband?

Dunno, I've certainly heard it that way though. I just hesitate to say "wife"... just 'cuz.

 

[FiredMartz]

But aren't there mom and pop sandwich shops that serve salads and soups and sandwiches in every town in America?

For sure. Always prefer Mom and Pop sandwich over a chain.

My post was a response to "I can't think of a worse chain to eat at." That seems amazing to me. I can think of many chains I'd rather not go to over Panera.

Well Panera is the worst I've had in terms of chains. I mean even at Applebee's you can get a halfway passable burger and fries.

At Panera, your options are bad soup/sandwich and salad, with a side of chips or barely edible baguette. The soups are frozen and reheated, and you can tell. The salad has wilted lettuce and not enough dressing. It's hospital food.

Sure, in terms of calories it may be one of the better options, but in terms of quality, it's the worst out of a mostly bad bunch of chain restaurants.

I had never been to Panera before they introduced their flatbread pizzas. I'm a sucker for any kind of pizza and they were pimping their "Pick Two" which included a salad and I do like a good chicken Caesar, so I gave it a try. I probably went there 5-6 times while they had this combo and was absolutely stuffed each time. The flatbread was quite tasty and the portion size for the salad was impressive. I hadn't gone in maybe 8-9 months and decided to give it a try and everything had gone in the crapper.

Interesting. Maybe that's my disconnect. I haven't been in a few months.

Yeah, I feel like places like Panera at one point were ok, but have been just awful more recently. Was forced to eat at one over the holidays this past year and couldn't finish it.

Chains in general have been going downhill for a while.

My domestic partner and I took my son out to one of those outdoor mall places to return a pair of shoes for my daughter, saw a movie and then wanted to get some grub. BJ's Pizza (our initial choice) was absolutely packed and told us it was a 30-45 minute wait. No thanks. Opted for TGI Friday's (yes, I guess they still exist) which was next door and got seated right away.

Nothing leapt out at me menu-wise, but I ended up settling on a "pick 3 apps" type of thing, and I think it was like $16.99. I got mozzarella sticks and a double order of boneless wings (OK, chicken nuggets ).

The "wings" were actually pretty good and the mozzarella sticks were probably some of the best I've ever had, honestly.

My wife got a burger (she was hankering for some meat ) and a margarita. She was super-impressed with the burger and she's not a "burger type" My picky son just wanted some fries and a Coke. I got an iced tea.

I think the total was under $65 with tip, not bad at all. I was pleasantly surprised. But yes chains are hurting.

So you took your domestic partner and your wife?

One in the same... let's just say things are... complicated.

I thought Domestic partner was a term used by gay guys instead of husband?

Dunno, I've certainly heard it that way though. I just hesitate to say "wife"... just 'cuz.

Hmmmmm.....so if I meet up with you and your " wife" at Henry and Harrys Goat Hill....will I meet a man or a woman?

 

[nirad3]

But aren't there mom and pop sandwich shops that serve salads and soups and sandwiches in every town in America?

For sure. Always prefer Mom and Pop sandwich over a chain.

My post was a response to "I can't think of a worse chain to eat at." That seems amazing to me. I can think of many chains I'd rather not go to over Panera.

Well Panera is the worst I've had in terms of chains. I mean even at Applebee's you can get a halfway passable burger and fries.

At Panera, your options are bad soup/sandwich and salad, with a side of chips or barely edible baguette. The soups are frozen and reheated, and you can tell. The salad has wilted lettuce and not enough dressing. It's hospital food.

Sure, in terms of calories it may be one of the better options, but in terms of quality, it's the worst out of a mostly bad bunch of chain restaurants.

I had never been to Panera before they introduced their flatbread pizzas. I'm a sucker for any kind of pizza and they were pimping their "Pick Two" which included a salad and I do like a good chicken Caesar, so I gave it a try. I probably went there 5-6 times while they had this combo and was absolutely stuffed each time. The flatbread was quite tasty and the portion size for the salad was impressive. I hadn't gone in maybe 8-9 months and decided to give it a try and everything had gone in the crapper.

Interesting. Maybe that's my disconnect. I haven't been in a few months.

Yeah, I feel like places like Panera at one point were ok, but have been just awful more recently. Was forced to eat at one over the holidays this past year and couldn't finish it.

Chains in general have been going downhill for a while.

My domestic partner and I took my son out to one of those outdoor mall places to return a pair of shoes for my daughter, saw a movie and then wanted to get some grub. BJ's Pizza (our initial choice) was absolutely packed and told us it was a 30-45 minute wait. No thanks. Opted for TGI Friday's (yes, I guess they still exist) which was next door and got seated right away.

Nothing leapt out at me menu-wise, but I ended up settling on a "pick 3 apps" type of thing, and I think it was like $16.99. I got mozzarella sticks and a double order of boneless wings (OK, chicken nuggets ).

The "wings" were actually pretty good and the mozzarella sticks were probably some of the best I've ever had, honestly.

My wife got a burger (she was hankering for some meat ) and a margarita. She was super-impressed with the burger and she's not a "burger type" My picky son just wanted some fries and a Coke. I got an iced tea.

I think the total was under $65 with tip, not bad at all. I was pleasantly surprised. But yes chains are hurting.

So you took your domestic partner and your wife?

One in the same... let's just say things are... complicated.

I thought Domestic partner was a term used by gay guys instead of husband?

Dunno, I've certainly heard it that way though. I just hesitate to say "wife"... just 'cuz.

Hmmmmm.....so if I meet up with you and your " wife" at Henry and Harrys Goat Hill....will I meet a man or a woman?

Oh she's all woman, and we actually went there on one of our first dates

 

[Hastur]

I have worked in restaurants before, so I know things have gotten tough with food costs, etc. However...

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

 

[Scoresman]

I have worked in restaurants before, so I know things have gotten tough with food costs, etc. However...

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

I'd be taken aback too. What if your party size wasn't a factor of 6? What do you do about splitting 6 toothpicks!?

 

[Hastur]

I have worked in restaurants before, so I know things have gotten tough with food costs, etc. However...

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

I'd be taken aback too. What if your party size wasn't a factor of 6? What do you then about splitting 6 toothpicks!?

I actually watched that happen to a table near us. Party of 8, and I tried to hide my smile as I heard them discussing the amount(or lack thereof) of food vs. the price. Most of them politely declined so others could have some. It ended up getting eaten, but I didn't pay attention to the social dynamic of who got what.

 

[Drunken knight]

I have worked in restaurants before, so I know things have gotten tough with food costs, etc. However...

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

I'd be taken aback too. What if your party size wasn't a factor of 6? What do you then about splitting 6 toothpicks!?

I actually watched that happen to a table near us. Party of 8, and I tried to hide my smile as I heard them discussing the amount(or lack thereof) of food vs. the price. Most of them politely declined so others could have some. It ended up getting eaten, but I didn't pay attention to the social dynamic of who got what.

lord of the flies?

 

[Leroy Hoard]

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

You cheapskates make me laugh. Do you have any idea of how much the price of toothpicks have gone up in the last few years?

 

[General Malaise]

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

You cheapskates make me laugh. Do you have any idea of how much the price of toothpicks have gone up in the last few years?

You know what I always thought was the grossest thing ever? That white, plastic toothpick that would come in your Swiss Army Knife. Yuck.

 

[beer 30]

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

You cheapskates make me laugh. Do you have any idea of how much the price of toothpicks have gone up in the last few years?

You know what I always thought was the grossest thing ever? That white, plastic toothpick that would come in your Swiss Army Knife. Yuck.

Dude I used one of those for years. The Swiss think of everything!

 

[Hastur]

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

You cheapskates make me laugh. Do you have any idea of how much the price of toothpicks have gone up in the last few years?

Wrong. I saw someone in the back cutting down a tree to make a fresh batch of toothpicks. Minimal cost I assure you.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

This morning, my wife and I went to brunch. I ordered the 'fruit and cheese' appetizer plate for $9.95. It came out on a small plate. It had 6 toothpicks, each with a smallish piece of fruit and two 1/2 inch square X 1/8 inch thick pieces of cheese.

My wife and I both were taken aback a little.

You cheapskates make me laugh. Do you have any idea of how much the price of toothpicks have gone up in the last few years?

You know what I always thought was the grossest thing ever? That white, plastic toothpick that would come in your Swiss Army Knife. Yuck.

Dude I used one of those for years. The Swiss think of everything!

Same. Utterly tragic when one invariably lost it

 

[dickey moe]

Paneras broccoli cheddar soup is pretty darn good. Everything else is meh and overpriced

Even farts are getting more expensive.

 

[Grahamburn]

My Hooters is closing.

 

[IvanKaramazov]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

 

[FiredMartz]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

breadsticks and all you can eat shrimp

 

[Capella]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

 

[WVU Alum]

When my kids were little, Olive Garden was a good deal. Kids meals had large portions and were cheap. Endless soup and breadsticks. We’d feed 5 people for $40. Now, no thanks. Kids eat way too much and if I wanted subpar Italian food, I’d just have the food my mother-in-law claims is authentic.

 

[McBokonon]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

Or have family in [insert small town name here] and these are your options. Olive Garden is about as good you get in my dad’s town. He doesn’t have an adventurous palate to try one of the few bistro type places in town so this is where I take him and it’s fine. It’s not “horrible” but of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

 

[Drunken knight]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

noted: will be in scottsdale in august

 

[Joe Bryant]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

Or have family in [insert small town name here] and these are your options. Olive Garden is about as good you get in my dad’s town. He doesn’t have an adventurous palate to try one of the few bistro type places in town so this is where I take him and it’s fine. It’s not “horrible” but of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

This hits on a bigger point that I think is super interesting with restaurants and hospitality.

For lots of cases, it's very little about the food. It's about the people you're with.

If you don't get to see a loved one that often, a dinner with them at a basic chain restaurant everyone rags on is infinitely better than a fine dining experience with people you don't care that much about.

I know nobody is saying different. And this is likely a different topic/thread. But it's an interesting part of the hospitality/restaurant scene. Of course, from the restaurant side, you want to do everything you can to encourage and facilitate the connection.

It just strikes me how often it's not about the restaurant.

 

[Hawks64]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

Or have family in [insert small town name here] and these are your options. Olive Garden is about as good you get in my dad’s town. He doesn’t have an adventurous palate to try one of the few bistro type places in town so this is where I take him and it’s fine. It’s not “horrible” but of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

This hits on a bigger point that I think is super interesting with restaurants and hospitality.

For lots of cases, it's very little about the food. It's about the people you're with.

If you don't get to see a loved one that often, a dinner with them at a basic chain restaurant everyone rags on is infinitely better than a fine dining experience with people you don't care that much about.

I know nobody is saying different. And this is likely a different topic/thread. But it's an interesting part of the hospitality/restaurant scene. Of course, from the restaurant side, you want to do everything you can to encourage and facilitate the connection.

It just strikes me how often it's not about the restaurant.

I'd wager that most places with chains also have an amazing local place that I would rather try and find and spend time with friends vs Olive Garden/Outback/Red Lobster etc.

 

[Phil Elliott]

In Budapest on the way to Bucharest on a river cruise. Was expecting the normal 10% tipping, but it appears all establishments (at least in Budapest) has gone to tacking on a service fee of 14-16% so no tipping.

 

[FairWarning]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

Or have family in [insert small town name here] and these are your options. Olive Garden is about as good you get in my dad’s town. He doesn’t have an adventurous palate to try one of the few bistro type places in town so this is where I take him and it’s fine. It’s not “horrible” but of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

This hits on a bigger point that I think is super interesting with restaurants and hospitality.

For lots of cases, it's very little about the food. It's about the people you're with.

If you don't get to see a loved one that often, a dinner with them at a basic chain restaurant everyone rags on is infinitely better than a fine dining experience with people you don't care that much about.

I know nobody is saying different. And this is likely a different topic/thread. But it's an interesting part of the hospitality/restaurant scene. Of course, from the restaurant side, you want to do everything you can to encourage and facilitate the connection.

It just strikes me how often it's not about the restaurant.

I think it is about the restaurant when it involves groups or out of towners. Chain restaurants are “safe” - you know what to expect from them. This is important.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I'd wager that most places with chains also have an amazing local place that I would rather try and find and spend time with friends vs Olive Garden/Outback/Red Lobster etc.

Entirely possible. And that's even better of course. But not at all my point.

For lots of people, especially older people, it strikes me that it's way more about the company than the restaurant.

 

[Mitchie]

I'd wager that most places with chains also have an amazing local place that I would rather try and find and spend time with friends vs Olive Garden/Outback/Red Lobster etc.

Entirely possible. And that's even better of course. But not at all my point.

For lots of people, especially older people, it strikes me that it's way more about the company than the restaurant.

But people can meet at any restaurant, no? Why is it the Olive Garden or another mediocre less healthy chain spot? Maybe has to do with older people having less taste buds, maybe they're less adventurous with their choices, maybe they're less concerned with a healthy meal because that isn't as important to them, I don't know.

 

[McBokonon]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

noted: will be in scottsdale in august

If you’re an old fashioned fan, their’s is phenomenal. They care about mixology in general so anything you order will be good but highlighting this. They bring out in a smoke box that could be gimmicky but it actually helps make it taste more amazing, too.

The braised short rib and bone marrow caramelli is delicious.

 

[BoltNlava]

With the rate restaurants are closing now what does the future bring? We are seeing titans of this industry as well as mom and pops, saying uncle and it's only a few months into the new minimum wage laws. Cali is leading the charge with pay but how far off is it for other states? Look out there is a new horizon where food preparation is crazy expensive. It used to be that these jobs: cooks/ busboy/ waitress or waiter/ hostess etc... these jobs used to be a bridge to a more prestigious career. Now it seems people want to retire as dishwasher at Mikes bistro. It's causing a strain on the restaurant industry as a whole. Will it ever recover? I get that people need a living wage and all but weren't these jobs for kids who live with their parents or at the very least a life preserver until things get better? IDK. I don't work in this industry it just seems that was the prevailing thought. Flame away. I know this is not a popular thought , especially in California.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

I haven't been to an Olive Garden or Red Lobster in 20+ years. Why do you people go to restaurants that you know you hate?

Because some of us have fathers who like it?

Or have family in [insert small town name here] and these are your options. Olive Garden is about as good you get in my dad’s town. He doesn’t have an adventurous palate to try one of the few bistro type places in town so this is where I take him and it’s fine. It’s not “horrible” but of course I look forward to getting back home and hitting up the Americano in Scottsdale.

This hits on a bigger point that I think is super interesting with restaurants and hospitality.

For lots of cases, it's very little about the food. It's about the people you're with.

If you don't get to see a loved one that often, a dinner with them at a basic chain restaurant everyone rags on is infinitely better than a fine dining experience with people you don't care that much about.

I know nobody is saying different. And this is likely a different topic/thread. But it's an interesting part of the hospitality/restaurant scene. Of course, from the restaurant side, you want to do everything you can to encourage and facilitate the connection.

It just strikes me how often it's not about the restaurant.

I think it is about the restaurant when it involves groups or out of towners. Chain restaurants are “safe” - you know what to expect from them. This is important.

100%. And this is rule 2 after make money. Chains exist and thrive because they are consistent That is number 1 when expanding. The Big Mac must be the same in BFE or Korea. Same with any menu item at any chain.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

With the rate restaurants are closing now what does the future bring? We are seeing titans of this industry as well as mom and pops, saying uncle and it's only a few months into the new minimum wage laws. Cali is leading the charge with pay but how far off is it for other states? Look out there is a new horizon where food preparation is crazy expensive. It used to be that these jobs: cooks/ busboy/ waitress or waiter/ hostess etc... these jobs used to be a bridge to a more prestigious career. Now it seems people want to retire as dishwasher at Mikes bistro. It's causing a strain on the restaurant industry as a whole. Will it ever recover? I get that people need a living wage and all but weren't these jobs for kids who live with their parents or at the very least a life preserver until things get better? IDK. I don't work in this industry it just seems that was the prevailing thought. Flame away. I know this is not a popular thought , especially in California.

The dishwasher at Mikes isn’t looking to retire. He just wants to pay his rent, buy some weed and play Xbox. Or more likely he wants to pay his rent and send 75% of his paycheck to his family in Mexico or wherever.

 

[Grahamburn]

I'd wager that most places with chains also have an amazing local place that I would rather try and find and spend time with friends vs Olive Garden/Outback/Red Lobster etc.

Entirely possible. And that's even better of course. But not at all my point.

For lots of people, especially older people, it strikes me that it's way more about the company than the restaurant.

But people can meet at any restaurant, no? Why is it the Olive Garden or another mediocre less healthy chain spot? Maybe has to do with older people having less taste buds, maybe they're less adventurous with their choices, maybe they're less concerned with a healthy meal because that isn't as important to them, I don't know.

They like the consistency of a chain and you can typically get a large portion for a good price. And people of that generation love the word FREE and/or “endless” or “bottomless.” Bread, salad, soup, etc.

These places are also typically EASY to find whereas the local chef is likely to be a bit more off the beaten path.

My parents don’t eat at the Olive Garden, but I bet they know exactly where it is. The local bistro or gastropub? Not so much.

 

[the moops]

With the rate restaurants are closing now what does the future bring?

Are restaurants closing up at any substantially different rate than year's past? Restaurant business has always been tough.