I would like to know what restaurants do you frequent when you hit the road.
Well, in the Garden State it is the Diner scene for me. Most are open 24/7 and you can get a breakfast anytime.
In Florida, its Millers Ale House (a regional chain) where the Food is good and if you like Miller Lite there are $6 Buckets.
In Fort Lauderdale there is Lesters Diner on FL 84 between I-95 and US 1 that is good as any NJ Diner.
In Dodge City, KS it is Casey's Cowtown Restaurant for a nice juicy steak.
In Kansas City, MO it is the Flamingo Casino as there restaurant has a great buffet lunch. Even if your not a gamer, stop by at lunch.
Then there is Golden Corral, but only Orlando, FL (at select ones) serves all three meals. There buffet is to die for.
In Canada: Tim Horton's, A&W, St. Hubert Express, Harvey's.
In the U.S. of A.: Denny's.
Everywhere: McDonald's, KFC, Burger King, DQ.
Oh, and Ben & Jerry's. :p
(yeah, I have bad habits).
Denny's, various buffets, and Cook Out if I'm in North Carolina, even though we have one here.
Quote from: roadman65 on October 26, 2011, 10:04:17 PM
Then there is Golden Corral, but only Orlando, FL (at select ones) serves all three meals. There buffet is to die for.
Golden Corral's food does tend to have that effect on people! :)
I'm not much of a diner guy myself. My favorite places to eat when I'm on the road are Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Panda Express for lunch. If I can't find any, McDonalds, Wendy's, Burger King, or whatever will do.
For dinner I usually try to find a local microbrewery. They always have interesting beer, and I've never had a bad meal at one. If there aren't any around, Buffalo Wild Wings is probably my favorite chain for dinner. Or I'll use Yelp to find something interesting and local. Chili's and TGI Friday's will do in a pinch, but I much prefer to find something I can't get at home.
Often Applebee's, Chili's, Red Lobster or Olive Garden. Usually because I cash in my credit card points for gift cards. Breakfast is often Waffle House unless I can find a local "greasy spoon". I rarely stop at Denny's and maybe stop at Shoney's once a year...usually in Hattiesburg, MS for their breakfast buffet.
I generally try to avoid chains, at least ones that can be found in California. Though travelling with kids, that is MUCH easier said than done. Driving in northern California, my oldest said she wanted In & Out, where we have one right by us! Oh well. If I go chain, I'll try and find something I can't get back home. Waffle House is the top one that comes to mind!
I'll usually go for a good brewery. I'm with realjd on this. Good beers and consistently good food! (Waiting on my flight to Portland as I type this and all excited about Deschutes and possible Cascade Lakes this weekend!)
I'm a big fan of going where the locals go, trying to find the best kept secrets. The age of Yelp has helped a lot! I've found some good "off the Interstate" type places.
I tend to be pretty lazy and hit up a Jack in the Box, Carl's Jr., Wendy's (a good national choice), or Del Taco ... usually I go through the drive-thru, the better to be on the road again as quickly as possible.
I figure I can eat, sleep, and go to the bathroom when I'm back at work. when I'm on vacation, I'm on vacation!!
Sheetz!!!!!!!!
If I'm traveling in Sheetz territory, that is automatically where I stop for lunch. If not, I will drive through McDonald's or Taco Bell.
In the evenings, if I have time, I will always choose Five Guys, then Cracker Barrel, then Bob Evans if I have those choices nearby. If not, I'll opt for some fast-food place that I don't frequently get to patronize, such as Sonic or Arby's or Long John Silver's.
I try to patronize local places when I reach my destination or if I'm not on the Interstate. When I'm en route somewhere, I'll just hit whichever fast food chain is the most convenient. I never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
I agree with the comments about brewpubs when available. Irish pubs are always high on the list as well. If we're visiting relatives, I'll ask them what they like. (Visiting relatives is often an exception to the "local places" rule if we're visiting the relatives who have little kids.)
QuoteI never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
If you don't mind my asking, how do you buy groceries?
Quote from: corco on October 27, 2011, 05:12:53 PM
QuoteI never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
If you don't mind my asking, how do you buy groceries?
I knew some smartarse would say that. You know what I meant. :-D
Considering my family likes to eat really fast and save cash, we almost always stop at terrible fast food places like McDonald's, Burger King, or Wendy's (whatever is at a given exit) while on the road. VERY rarely do we eat at sit down restaurants while on the road.
50/50 on chains versus local places. In some of the small towns I visit, you don't have much choice, save the McDonald's and Subway that are virtually ubiquitous if the town has at least one stop light. Generally, I'll get verbal responses first on the local eateries. Typically, I'll visit the chain stores that I don't get on South Florida.
That said, there's almost always an Applebee's or Chili's within a few miles of my hotel...service varies at some of these places during lunchtime, though...sometimes they don't understand an hour lunch includes my drive time and is inclusive of the time between greeting and getting my receipt back.
Let's see (I swear we did this thread before)...
Breakfast: A decent donut place usually works for me. Homecut Donuts here at home, Sweetwaters in southern Michigan. Anyplace that serves a decent cinnamon roll.
Lunch/Dinner: Subway, Popeye's, Wendy's, Arby's, Culver's, Rocky Rococo's.
I don't really like sit-down places when I'm by myself.
If you're on I-40 in Arkansas, check out CJ's Butcher Boy in Russellville. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Quote from: hbelkins on October 27, 2011, 02:54:08 PM
Sheetz!!!!!!!!
If I'm traveling in Sheetz territory, that is automatically where I stop for lunch. If not, I will drive through McDonald's or Taco Bell.
I like the way you think, sir. Sheetz has pretty good coffee, too, and their breakfast selection isn't bad either. Before I was diagnosed with celiac disease, that's pretty much where I stopped whenever possible. Wawa is also a good alternative since I liked their sandwiches, but Sheetz' variety is unbeatable for what it is.
Nowadays I also opt for Five Guys (if possible), Wendy's, or Sonic for fast food. Eating in, I'd opt for Denny's, O'Charley's, or local restaurants. I'll go with Applebee's or Chili's if I have no other options.
Quote from: Brandon on October 27, 2011, 08:12:10 PM
I don't really like sit-down places when I'm by myself.
That's why most restaurants have a bar. You'll notice most evenings that restaurant bars are full of lone business travelers. It's much less awkward than getting a table for one.
I forgot to mention Publix earlier. They're all over the southeast and have amazing fried chicken, hand made subs, and other fresh food. I'll go to a Publix over most fast food places. I'm addicted to their chicken tenders in particular.
Quote from: realjd on October 27, 2011, 11:01:53 PM
Quote from: Brandon on October 27, 2011, 08:12:10 PM
I don't really like sit-down places when I'm by myself.
That's why most restaurants have a bar. You'll notice most evenings that restaurant bars are full of lone business travelers. It's much less awkward than getting a table for one.
That used to really faze me, but if I'm on the road these days I've sort of stopped caring. But yeah, sitting at a bar is ideal.
It's still sort of weird when you're in a strange location that doesn't have many through travelers (much less awkward to eat alone right off the freeway than in the middle of nowhere), but whatever. I bring something that looks like work with me- often a notebook to jot down roadtrip notes, and focus on that.
Quote from: Brandon on October 27, 2011, 08:12:10 PM
I don't really like sit-down places when I'm by myself.
I don't mind for lunch — usually I just want to get some work/play done on the laptop — sometimes for dinner, but if there's a ginormous crowd in the evenings, I steer clear...I get a gut feeling that I'm not going to great service because the resulting tip for waiting my table isn't generally as cost-effective as a group of four. Secondly, I've had enough noise and banter to deal with all day, and the last thing I want to do is hear a couple of LOUD LUSHES WHO DON'T REALIZE ALCOHOL APPARENTLY MAKES THEM PARTIALLY DEAF in the table next me (who are actually having a bit more fun than I am).
On the other hand, I think of the part of a movie (which title escapes me), where Steve Martin is introduced as a "party of one". He sees a friend at the restaurant later on, and asks him to join him at their table. "What about your bill?"...to which Steve pulls out a notepad just as the chef is coming by, assumes he's a food critic, and gives him a complementary meal. :)
Quote from: roadman65 on October 26, 2011, 10:04:17 PM
In Florida, its Millers Ale House (a regional chain) where the Food is good and if you like Miller Lite there are $6 Buckets.
In Fort Lauderdale there is Lesters Diner on FL 84 between I-95 and US 1 that is good as any NJ Diner.
Then there is Golden Corral, but only Orlando, FL (at select ones) serves all three meals. There buffet is to die for.
The Miller's Ale Houses (usually they are named for whatever city they are located in, e.g. Jupiter Ale House, Boca Ale House, Miami Ale House)...and they do offer good food and service, and lots of seating for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. I met the owner back in my days as a service advisor, and he was an alright guy.
Lester's Diner (there's a satellite diner closer to home) is decent, good service, okay food, but definitely one of those places if you have no idea what you want to eat...hey serve just about everything. Great place to take the kids, and overhear the old folks as well...used to hit them up after a night of drinking and such.
Golden Corral doesn't impress me; if I go, I go to the one by my home. Sometimes I'm in the mood for it, but I kind of wish I could get my own drinks. The kids like it (although they seem to enjoy eating whatever's on my plate, rather than their plates).
Quote from: realjd on October 27, 2011, 11:01:53 PM
That's why most restaurants have a bar. You'll notice most evenings that restaurant bars are full of lone business travelers. It's much less awkward than getting a table for one.
You get a table for one, and many restaurants will ignore you. I will never eat at Red Robin because of this.
Quote from: roadman65 on October 26, 2011, 10:04:17 PM
I would like to know what restaurants do you frequent when you hit the road.
Well, in the Garden State it is the Diner scene for me. Most are open 24/7 and you can get a breakfast anytime.
In Florida, its Millers Ale House (a regional chain) where the Food is good and if you like Miller Lite there are $6 Buckets.
In Fort Lauderdale there is Lesters Diner on FL 84 between I-95 and US 1 that is good as any NJ Diner.
In Dodge City, KS it is Casey's Cowtown Restaurant for a nice juicy steak.
In Kansas City, MO it is the Flamingo Casino as there restaurant has a great buffet lunch. Even if your not a gamer, stop by at lunch.
Then there is Golden Corral, but only Orlando, FL (at select ones) serves all three meals. There buffet is to die for.
In the East (from Maryland south to Florida) it's Waffle House. I am obese, and for that reason don't eat there very often, but I
love their waffles.
In California, I like In-N-Out.
And like H. B. Elkins, I have a preference for Sheetz (which can be found in various exurban and rural parts of Md., Va., W.Va. and Penna. - and perhaps some other states).
WaWa is also good.
Sonic (found in various places, but not with the critical mass of some fast-food joints) isn't bad either.
And also in the East is Roy Rogers. The owners of the rights to the chain are trying to make a come-back, and the food is consistently good.
Finally, Chick-Fil-A is the best for a chicken sandwich (hold the pickle, please) - service is usually good and the stores are always clean.
Quote from: 1995hoo on October 27, 2011, 05:03:38 PM
I try to patronize local places when I reach my destination or if I'm not on the Interstate. When I'm en route somewhere, I'll just hit whichever fast food chain is the most convenient. I never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
Who doesn't allow it?
Quote from: hbelkins on October 28, 2011, 04:12:39 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on October 27, 2011, 05:03:38 PM
I try to patronize local places when I reach my destination or if I'm not on the Interstate. When I'm en route somewhere, I'll just hit whichever fast food chain is the most convenient. I never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
Who doesn't allow it?
How does your family pick up the groceries then? :-P
Quote from: Zmapper on October 28, 2011, 07:57:37 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on October 28, 2011, 04:12:39 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on October 27, 2011, 05:03:38 PM
I try to patronize local places when I reach my destination or if I'm not on the Interstate. When I'm en route somewhere, I'll just hit whichever fast food chain is the most convenient. I never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
Who doesn't allow it?
How does your family pick up the groceries then? :-P
corco beat you to it by several hours.
This is one of the GREAT things about smartphones! I don't have to eat at any dreadful chain restaurants anymore. And that's not to say that there are no good chains; only that once you find a good one, you (or at least I) tend to go there frequently until it becomes dreadful.
I enjoy traveling by car more now than ever, and not least because of smartphones. When I'm hungry I don't have to settle for something I can get at home.
Quote from: hbelkins on October 28, 2011, 04:12:39 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on October 27, 2011, 05:03:38 PM
I try to patronize local places when I reach my destination or if I'm not on the Interstate. When I'm en route somewhere, I'll just hit whichever fast food chain is the most convenient. I never use the drive-thru because food is not allowed in the car, even for take-home purposes.
Who doesn't allow it?
That's because children are fond of using any surface on a vehicle's interior as a napkin.
On the other hand, having the daughter spend two hours quietly dissect a cheeseburger was worth the 15 minutes of clean-up, just to have some peace and quiet during an 600 mile drive.
Out of the ordinary distances tend to break my no-eat-in-car policy.
Quote from: formulanone on October 29, 2011, 10:20:08 AM
That's because children are fond of using any surface on a vehicle's interior as a napkin.
On the other hand, having the daughter spend two hours quietly dissect a cheeseburger was worth the 15 minutes of clean-up, just to have some peace and quiet during an 600 mile drive.
Out of the ordinary distances tend to break my no-eat-in-car policy.
That's your reason. Still wondering about 1995hoo's reasoning.
Quote from: berberry on October 29, 2011, 03:15:06 AM
This is one of the GREAT things about smartphones! I don't have to eat at any dreadful chain restaurants anymore. And that's not to say that there are no good chains; only that once you find a good one, you (or at least I) tend to go there frequently until it becomes dreadful.
I enjoy traveling by car more now than ever, and not least because of smartphones. When I'm hungry I don't have to settle for something I can get at home.
What tool do you use to get recommendations?
Quote from: hbelkins on October 29, 2011, 08:33:52 PM
What tool do you use to get recommendations?
If I'm totally unfamiliar with my location I'd start with the GPS software and use google, zagat (which google seems to pull from), opentable to get info and/or reviews. There are probably good apps available that do it all more quickly and easily on a phone, but this is a service I need only rarely so I haven't invested much time in looking for an ideal solution. The fact that the smartphone makes the web available almost anywhere is the key. That helps with a lot more than just finding good restaurants.
It's worth the trouble sometimes even when you're very familiar with the city you're in. I used it not long ago to find a good bowl of red beans and rice in New Orleans at 2 in the morning.
To answer hbelkins–obviously I wasn't referring to grocery shopping but rather to picking up any food that smells and to eating. I keep the car extremely clean inside, so that's a major reason for no eating, and I don't want the smell of fast food permeating it in any way. Made that mistake in my previous car. (An exception applies in my other current car if the convertible top is down.) Prohibiting food helps keep the interior as close to like-new condition as possible.
I sometimes allow drinks in travel mugs.
For Breakfast: IHOP, Wawa, Dunkin' Donuts, McDonalds or Burger King
Lunch: Chick-Fil-A, McDonalds, Wendy's, Wawa
Dinner: Five Guys or sit down places.
I'm really not that particular, but those are the place's I'll go to if I have a choice.
I had Wendy's for lunch today, for the first time in years... despite recent ads, I think they've gotten worse.
When I travel, especially when alone, I look for Jason's Deli or Panera Bread. If I am in the mood for a burger, I would pick Five Guys, or Culver's, if I am in their part of the country. Back in the 80's, I spent several months working in Oklahoma, and I have fond memories of Braum's - their burgers, crinkle cut fries, and their shakes. Of course if I were in California it would only be In N Out Burger. I am soooo jealous of the Dallas, TX area getting In N Out. I hope I live long enough to see them in Atlanta.
I can't believe I left off White Castle! Anytime I'm in a part of the country that has them, it's a total guilty pleasure.
Quote from: OCGuy81 on November 01, 2011, 10:43:07 PM
I can't believe I left off White Castle! Anytime I'm in a part of the country that has them, it's a total guilty pleasure.
You just slide on in? ;)
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2011, 11:24:15 PM
Quote from: OCGuy81 on November 01, 2011, 10:43:07 PM
I can't believe I left off White Castle! Anytime I'm in a part of the country that has them, it's a total guilty pleasure.
You just slide on in? ;)
And they just slide on out. X-(
Quote from: Brandon on November 02, 2011, 07:10:18 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2011, 11:24:15 PM
Quote from: OCGuy81 on November 01, 2011, 10:43:07 PM
I can't believe I left off White Castle! Anytime I'm in a part of the country that has them, it's a total guilty pleasure.
You just slide on in? ;)
And they just slide on out. X-(
Just like Krystal's :spin:
Breakfast: Big Boy, Burger King, McDonalds
Lunch/Dinner: McDonalds, Arby's
Dinner: Olive Garden, Red Lobster
I try to eat at restaurants that I don't get up in Toronto.
Usually that means Cracker Barrel, Bob Evans or Waffle House. Waffle House is my favourite, and if I'm down south, I'll stop at one at least once.
It all depends on how far i am going.
Hour or so away, i get a block of cheese from acme/wal-mart/shop rite and snack on it during the trip along with some store brand canned soda.
If i am going far enough away to where a normal resturant is required, i normally pick either Wendy's/Burger king/Taco bell. whatever one i am in the mood for that day. If i feel like it i have picked up a little caesar's hot n ready pizza for a 4+ hour trip and just snacked on it in the back seat when i took breaks. If i feel fancy i pick a local diner if it is in the NJ/PA area, if not i normally pick something i have not had before, or a buffet. Golden Corral is always a good bet for me to eat at as i can find something halfway decent to eat. If i feel risky, i try local chinese buffets, sometimes they do not agree with me, other times i am okay.
If i am traveling with someone else, a buffet is the first choice, or a WaWa if it is in the mid-atlantic states, that way we both can get something decent, or at least a decent snack.
Anyone ever eaten at a Huddle House? I think they're somewhat of a knockoff of Waffle House, as they're open 24/7/365 and have a variety of breakfast and lunch/dinner items that are served round the clock. I haven't tried HH and it's been years since I've had Waffle House.
One thing I dislike about Waffle House is that if they allow smoking, you come out smelling like an ashtray and feeling like you've smoked the equivalent of a carton of unfiltered Camels.
Quote from: hbelkins on November 04, 2011, 09:28:34 PM
One thing I dislike about Waffle House is that if they allow smoking, you come out smelling like an ashtray and feeling like you've smoked the equivalent of a carton of unfiltered Camels.
Won't happen in Arkansas: smoking is banned in public restaurants.
I ate at a Huddle House in Mississippi a couple years ago: *slightly* better than "awful waffle" .
Jersey Mike's whenever I'm in a place that has one... Some of the best cold cut subs ever. I assume you're talking about chains and not things in specific places. I kind of like Baja Fresh. besides those two, there isn't really any good chain food in my opinion. I will only eat fast food and family chain restaurants as a last possible 'I'm starving and everything is closed' resort.
Quote from: hbelkins on November 04, 2011, 09:28:34 PM
One thing I dislike about Waffle House is that if they allow smoking, you come out smelling like an ashtray and feeling like you've smoked the equivalent of a carton of unfiltered Camels.
Won't happen in Illinois or Michigan either. Smoking is banned in most public indoor places (including casinos in Illinois).
I think at least 35-40 states or so have banned indoor smoking in restaurants. Florida did it around 2002 or so, a few places jumped the gun a few months prior to gain business. Even then, there's a few loopholes; for example, outdoor seating with at least two open walls permits smoking, tables on sidewalk permit it...the problem is that the law made you think twice about taking a table outdoors when the weather's nice, or by the beach. But it was a trade-off for the better, in my opinion.
Some places elsewhere in the US don't even ask, which means anyone can smoke anywhere, which is really annoying.
That said, I used to smoke 15 years ago, so the smell of it actually bothers me more now that I've quit.
I was looking at some old pictures and stumbled across this one I took in Jacksonville on a Gator Bowl trip a few years back. I'm not a big fan of Chinese food, but I'd almost be tempted to stop at this place just because of its name.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi31.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fc378%2F1995hoo%2FRoad%2520sign%2520pictures%2F8a85fc2a.jpg&hash=0ccfc264c082610ddd0ef1b7306ca11cc6e5af5d)
When Ohio passed their law a couple years back (I didn't vote for it, though I don't smoke) - the one thing I noticed the next time I ate at Waffle House...
"Wow, this place is a whole lot cleaner when people can't smoke here!"
Quote from: OCGuy81 on November 01, 2011, 10:43:07 PM
I can't believe I left off White Castle! Anytime I'm in a part of the country that has them, it's a total guilty pleasure.
I was in Kansas City, MO once and saw one there back in 00. I did not stop there then, but a year later I was back then, and it was boarded up! Then I was passing back through that way again (return home from South Dakota) and saw the White Castle on the blue sign along US 71 south of the Triangle. Got off, as I said to myself that this must be one to open as it is on a state erected sign, and tried to find this place. Went in the direction of the sign, and traveled about a mile and could not find it. THEN, as I returned back to US 71 in hope of finding it hidden or missed the first time, I saw another boarded up building that obviously was a White Castle. So in this area, all these chains are CLOSED! Nonetheless, if I see one around Indiana, Illinois, or New Jersey, where they still are, I will stop.
I forgot, New Jersey local pizzerias are a place I visit. The Summer NJ Boardwalks are loaded with them!
Then one post here about Publix as I live in Florida where they are everywhere. It does bring up that most of us watching what we eat due to colesterol and sugar, that the chain stores use in their seasoning, it may be wise to buy our food at food markets and eat in the car or find a rest area to pull off in. In New Jersey it is hard, cause it seems that they are closing the Rest Areas one by one, and if they leave them open it is for trucks only. Still with Shop Rite or Pathmark, you could get a good deli sandwich and eat in the parking lot. This way you are buying the food like you would for home and watch what you put in. Its not the food as much as the way its prepared that causes health problems. I have high sugar myself and might have to patronize market food when I am out.
If you visit Florida you have not only Hooters, but Ker's Winghouse in the Tampa, Orlando, and Daytona areas. Their wings are much better and the girls are much better to serve you as many Hooters will ignore you if you sit alone. Unless you are a regular there and have money or possessed with the gift of gab, you will only have the girls give you true service. Winghouse, has some girls that may be stuck up, but they do have many who make single or group people feel welcome! They have dollar drafts between 4 and 7 weekdays, but stay away during Pay Per View events! This is one place that gets jamned packed as they offer no cover charge!
Kokomo, Indiana on US 31 you have the King Buffet for Chinese food. For less than $7 you get lunch with iced tea and an all you can eat buffet. Next door is the White Castle if you are craving that, or Buffalo Wild Wings in the same strip plaza. All these are on the SE corner of US 31 and SR 22. Then one block east of US 31 on SR 22, you have Sams and Wal Mart. This is a Super Wal Mart and you can get cheap food in the food section plus gas up as this store has a station too. Most Wal Marts, if you buy a gift card, you can save at their pumps on each gallon.
There are a couple White Castle's along old US 66 in the St Louis area.
As for the "slider" chains, Nashville was the first market where White Castle and Krystal ever competed directly with one another. I remember when WC first came to Nashville back in the mid-late 80's. Krystal, where they could, intentionally bought small outparcels across the street from the White Castles and built drive-thru only restaurants. These days, White Castle is still in Nashville (barely) and is usually co-branded with Church's Chicken. Krystal pretty much closed down all of those drive-thru only locations near the White Castles, but they have rehabbed/rebuilt their other existing restaurants and overall have a better presence.
The only other markets where they both compete appear to be Clarksville, TN and Bowling Green, Somerset, and London in KY. A few years ago there was one in Nicholasville, KY just south of Lexington, but I think it's gone now. They do have one in Mt. Sterling, KY, about 30 miles east of Lexington, but no WC there that I'm aware of.
Quote from: roadman65 on November 13, 2011, 01:04:18 PM
If you visit Florida you have not only Hooters, but Ker's Winghouse in the Tampa, Orlando, and Daytona areas. Their wings are much better and the girls are much better to serve you as many Hooters will ignore you if you sit alone. Unless you are a regular there and have money or possessed with the gift of gab, you will only have the girls give you true service. Winghouse, has some girls that may be stuck up, but they do have many who make single or group people feel welcome! They have dollar drafts between 4 and 7 weekdays, but stay away during Pay Per View events! This is one place that gets jamned packed as they offer no cover charge!.
If youre looking for wings, Buffalo Wild Wings is the best chain by far, both in Florida and nationwide. They blow Hooters out of the water (although their waitresses tend to have smaller, less visible tits).
Quote from: roadman65 on November 13, 2011, 01:04:18 PM
Then one post here about Publix as I live in Florida where they are everywhere. It does bring up that most of us watching what we eat due to colesterol and sugar, that the chain stores use in their seasoning, it may be wise to buy our food at food markets and eat in the car or find a rest area to pull off in.
I do this occasionally; their stores are plentiful in Florida and generally in larger cities within Georgia, but less in Alabama and South Carolina. Some of the ore modern stores have tables to sit and have a bite to eat. Also, most locations have free coffee in the bakery department if you arrive between 7-8am (most stores open at 7am on weekdays)...so if you're really on the cheap, you can grab a cup or two. I worked for them for years, so I generally feel comfortable shopping there and their stores are usually immaculate.
Quote from: realjd on November 13, 2011, 07:55:05 PM
If you're looking for wings, Buffalo Wild Wings is the best chain by far, both in Florida and nationwide. They blow Hooters out of the water (although their waitresses tend to have smaller, less visible tits).
They've recently come to the South Florida market, but they're pretty good from what I've had on the road. Hooter's wing sauce doesn't agree with me.
Forgot about
National Coney Island when I'm in the Detroit area...gimme two loaded dogs with onions and mustard and a Vernor's.
Quote from: formulanone on November 14, 2011, 01:23:40 PM
I do this occasionally; their stores are plentiful in Florida and generally in larger cities within Georgia, but less in Alabama and South Carolina.
Except in Birmingham, there are A LOT of Publix near me.
Quote from: wriddle082 on November 13, 2011, 05:14:42 PM
The only other markets where they both compete appear to be Clarksville, TN and Bowling Green, Somerset, and London in KY. A few years ago there was one in Nicholasville, KY just south of Lexington, but I think it's gone now. They do have one in Mt. Sterling, KY, about 30 miles east of Lexington, but no WC there that I'm aware of.
No WC in Mt. Sterling, you are correct. I've driven through the Krystal there many times. It's joined with a Shell food mart; at one time the venture was part of a chain of Shells operated by a family here in my town (went to school with their sons) but they sold out to Apple Market from Virginia.
WC and Krystal competed briefly in Richmond, along KY 876, but the Krystal closed and that location is now the site of a Lee's Famous Recipe. Krystal was closer to I-75 while White Castle has opened in an outparcel of Lowe's and Walmart a couple of miles to the east.
QuoteIf youre looking for wings, Buffalo Wild Wings is the best chain by far, both in Florida and nationwide. They blow Hooters out of the water (although their waitresses tend to have smaller, less visible tits).
Yeah, me thinks Hooters never really had to put much effort into their food. Just a place for college chicks to make money without resorting to a pole.
If in a hurry, I usually find a Wendy's. Their .99 menu tends to be the best, IMHO.
If I have time to stop for awhile, I look for mom 'n pop restaurants. I almost always enjoy them much more than chains.
Just discovered Shane's Rib Shack in Georgia and North Carolina. Plenty of takes on the MUTCD signs, most using what seem to be right fonts.
Since so many people recommended Five Guys I decided to try the new one that just opened up here in Norman yesterday... It was all right (I had a burger with just ketchup and mustard and it tasted rather close to a Wendy's burger) but not worth the price in my opinion.
I order it "All The Way, No Shrooms", which is similar to In and Out Burger's "Double Double Animal Style".
its not a resteraunt, but whenever we go to see family up in door county wisconsin, we always get fresh cheese at Renards cheese off WI just past southern door highschool. best cheese i have ever had is from there, and living in wisconsin, I KNOW CHEESE!!
The fresh-cut fries -- and the amount you get with a small order -- is one of Five Guys' selling points. They fill the cup and then they dump a bunch of extra in the bag on top of the rest of the food.
Quote from: hbelkins on December 16, 2011, 07:16:30 PM
The fresh-cut fries -- and the amount you get with a small order -- is one of Five Guys' selling points. They fill the cup and then they dump a bunch of extra in the bag on top of the rest of the food.
I always laugh at the Five Guys rookies who order a large fry intending to eat it themselves. My wife and I order a regular fry to share and don't always finish it.
Quote from: 1995hoo on December 18, 2011, 12:45:42 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on December 16, 2011, 07:16:30 PM
The fresh-cut fries -- and the amount you get with a small order -- is one of Five Guys' selling points. They fill the cup and then they dump a bunch of extra in the bag on top of the rest of the food.
I always laugh at the Five Guys rookies who order a large fry intending to eat it themselves. My wife and I order a regular fry to share and don't always finish it.
Yeah, that was probably what made it so expensive for us. Having never been to one before we both ordered a regular fry not expecting the excess dumped in the bag. My girlfriend had leftover fries for lunch for three days.
The last year or two I've been on a Quizno's kick for some reason. Maybe I just reached saturation on Subway for road subs. (There seems to be one in every town with at least 1000 people.)
This being Wisconsin, if I'm on a burger kick, it's Culver's.
My wife is not a big burger fan, and she likes Culver's.
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
i love culvers as well, whenever i can i go to a culvers or a&w and just get cheese curds.... i feel sorry for the rest of the nation that doesnt get to experiance the cheesy goodness.
Culver's and Braum's are roughly equivalent.
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 20, 2011, 05:57:27 PM
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
I haven't stopped at SnS in a long time, but did when I was in KC a couple weeks ago: their chili is not as good as I remember it :(
Quote from: US71 on December 21, 2011, 09:31:16 AM
I haven't stopped at SnS in a long time, but did when I was in KC a couple weeks ago: their chili is not as good as I remember it :(
Glad it wasn't just me.
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 20, 2011, 05:57:27 PM
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
I've seen several of them here in Florida this week but haven't seen any at home in Northern Virginia. Maybe I'll have to check it out before we head back.
Quote from: 1995hoo on December 24, 2011, 11:09:20 PM
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 20, 2011, 05:57:27 PM
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
I've seen several of them here in Florida this week but haven't seen any at home in Northern Virginia. Maybe I'll have to check it out before we head back.
The closest one to you is in Fredericksburg, off I-95 at Exit 126. A new one opened in Richmond last week off Laburnum Avenue, near I-64 (not far from the airport).
Quote from: US71 on December 21, 2011, 09:31:16 AM
I haven't stopped at SnS in a long time, but did when I was in KC a couple weeks ago: their chili is not as good as I remember it :(
Damn, that's a shame, I remember having their chili when I was in Illinois a few years ago. It was pretty good then.
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 20, 2011, 05:57:27 PM
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
Not to mention the prices. For what little you pay for most things, you get a decent amount. It's around fast-food pricing for a considerable step above fast food.
I really wish there was one here in Florence, but alas, the closest one is in Huntsville.
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 25, 2011, 11:48:43 AM
Quote from: 1995hoo on December 24, 2011, 11:09:20 PM
Quote from: WillWeaverRVA on December 20, 2011, 05:57:27 PM
Now that more of them are popping up, add Steak 'n Shake to the list of places I like to stop. Their shakes are incredible, and their burgers are pretty good too.
I've seen several of them here in Florida this week but haven't seen any at home in Northern Virginia. Maybe I'll have to check it out before we head back.
The closest one to you is in Fredericksburg, off I-95 at Exit 126. A new one opened in Richmond last week off Laburnum Avenue, near I-64 (not far from the airport).
....
Guess that's why I haven't seen one. Didn't get around to stopping at one in Florida, so I suppose I'll forget about it since I don't plan on heading towards Fredericksburg any time soon. Thanks anyway!
When out stormchasing, there are a handful of places we will go to if we are within 80 miles of it when done chasing for the day or for lunch. Here are my musts that are not major chains (and food i get) when we go chasing:
Kansas City MO - Jess N Jim's Steakhouse 517 E 135th St (BBQ Beef ribs or ribeye)
Sikeston MO - Lambert's 2305 E Malone-US 62 (Breadbowl salad and "throwing" rolls)
Ft Worth TX - Cattleman's Steakhouse 2458 N Main St (BBQ Beef ribs) (my fav Rib place in the world
and by the FTW Stockyards-another cool museum)
Amarillo TX - Big Texan 7701 E I-40 (prime rib) (no I have not attempted the 72 ozer.)
Lubbock TX - Cagle's Steakhouse near 4th St FM 2255 & Inler Ave FM 179 (BBQ Beef ribs, Prime rib
and Ribeye steaks) (Be forwarned Beef is about the ONLY thing on the menu)
Floydada TX - I can't remember the name of it but it was on US 70 and had a Gorilla statue dressed up as Uncle Sam next to it. (Best Cheeseburger ever)
Odessa TX - The Barn Door Steakhouse 2140 Andrews Hwy-US 385 (BBQ Beef ribs)
Boise City OK - Yellow Horse Cafe 500 E Main St-US 56/64/412 (Rueben sandwich)
Oklahoma City OK - County Line Rest. 1226 NE 63rd St (BBQ Beef ribs)
Dodge City KS - Montana Mike's 700 W Wyatt Earp Blvd-Bus US 50 (Buffalo burger)(Also been to the
one in Colby KS-1855 S Range.)
Rapid City SD - Firehouse Brewery and Grill 610 Main St (Fish N Chips)
Denver CO - Breckenridge Brewery 2220 Blake St across from Coors Field (Reuben sandwich)
Fargo ND - Space Alien Cafe 1840 45th St. SW (Pizza) (think kind of like Chuck E Cheese but better)
Davenport IA - Machine Shed 7250 Northwest Blvd-Hwy 130 (BBQ Pork ribs) (also been to Rockford IL-7475 E State St-Bus US 20, Des Moines IA-I 80 & 35 Exit 125, and Pewaukee WI-N14W24145 Tower Place off I-94 & Hwy 164)
Green Bay WI - Brett Favre's Steakhouse - 1004 Brett Favre Pass off Lombardi Ave & Holmgren Way east of Lambeau Field (Prime rib with brown sugar butter)
Winneconne WI - Fin N Feather 22 W Main St-Hwy 116 (Friday Fish Fry)
DeKalb IL - Lukulo's 1101 W Lincoln Hwy-Hwy 38 at Annie Glidden Rd by NIU (Beer Nuggets with Red sauce)
Stuff locally that i frequent:
Naperville IL - Mason Sambika (Spanish)
Naperville IL - Bangkok Village (Thai)
Bolingbrook IL - Golden Chopsticks (Chinese)
Bolingbrook IL - Branmoor's (Steaks and Seafood)
Bolingbrook IL - Preno's (Best Gyros around)
Algonquin IL - Port Edward (Seafood)
Chicago IL - Philly's Best W Jackson Blvd E of Halsted St (Philly Cheesesteaks and Pizza)
Chicago IL - D'Agostino's Pizzaria W Addison St & N Southport Ave west of Wrigley Field (Chicago
Deep Dish Pizza)
Chicago IL - Jim's Original Polish S Union St N of Maxwell St (go to the 1st building north, the one next dorr is an imposter and looks exactly the same) (Sandwiches and Hot Dogs) (Get the Bone In Pork Chop Sandwich for $3.80 with grilled onions and mustard, no peppers. Food of the Gods.)
There's a convenience store/gas station in Heavener, OK that has excellent chicken strips. It is a "Finish Line" branded store. You can get 3 strips, 3 potato logs, a roll, and a 20 ounce Coke for less than $5, and it is amazing. I stop there almost every time I drive from Tulsa to Mena.
Quote from: bugo on January 02, 2012, 02:05:32 AM
There's a convenience store/gas station in Heavener, OK that has excellent chicken strips. It is a "Finish Line" branded store. You can get 3 strips, 3 potato logs, a roll, and a 20 ounce Coke for less than $5, and it is amazing. I stop there almost every time I drive from Tulsa to Mena.
I've run into quite a few places like that. Oftimes if I am traveling and happen to stop at some convenience store for gas or a restroom break, I'll get chicken strips and tater wedges if they have a hot bar. Chester Fried Chicken is usually really good if you can find a place that carries it.
Steak and Shake is OK, but Eddie's Drive In on US 50 in Sedalia, Missouri has better steakburgers.