by Matthew D » Sun May 29, 2011 10:03 pm
When in Louisville, I don't eat at any national chains. Just really no reason, at all, to do so.
But in the last 10 days I have eaten at Wendy's, Chili's, and, yes, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. Drove from Louisville to Spartanburg to Leitchfield Beach (SC) to Durham to Louisville. The legs to Durham and Louisville were with family members so Wendy's and Chili's were collective decisions off of highway exits. Margaritaville was pretty much out of my control, although I guess I could have expended considerable energy to stick my opinion somewhere it did not belong.
Interstate travel is tough when it comes to avoiding chains. On the way to Spartanburg, my gf and I enjoyed a picnic lunch that made use of whatever needed to be eaten from my fridge. Going from Spartanburg to the beach, we made a stop at a local bar and grill. A chain would have been a better choice based on taste, but we appreciated the risk we took.
Earlier this year, we found a great local Mexican joint on the outskirts of Atlanta. Had to venture a bit off the highway, but doing so brought about happiness.
I should say that eating at Chili's was partially a result of me putting my foot down against Cracker Barrel. Little victories, sometimes.
If traveling and in need of a chain I'll do Wendy's, Subway, or Chili's. Pretty much can always find one of those.
Finally, I feel less a drive to support locals when I know the owners support national chains. Petty, but true. Roger will always get my dollars.
Thinks the frosty mug is the low point in American history.