I personally run hot and cold on the chains - sometimes I like them and sometimes I don't. I don't have the time to research restaurants, so sometimes I prefer to go with what I know.
Also, I am wary of where to get reliable info on restaurants. For example, when traveling, I often ask the hotel concierge, bellman, or front desk for recommendations. If they whip out a coupon and sign or initial it, I usually disregard it, preferring to take my chances elsewhere. Call it the pessimist in me, but this has proven to be bad in the past.
Also, how these same people respond is a good indicator. When they start asking me what I prefer (beyond the basic American, Italian, Chinese, etc. - do I prefer Northern Italian or Sicilian, am I looking for quiet or more of a party atmosphere, etc.), and when their recommendation includes, "this place isn't for everyone", I often pay more attention.
I will admit that I am bad about trying out new places. Even though 9 times out of 10, I enjoy the new place.
Quote:
Originally Posted by NirvanaMan
Maybe I drank too much egg nog tonight.
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No such thing.