Why aren't American shops more "fun"? - World - Page 4 - City-Data Forum

KathrynAragon · 12-07-2012, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Momotaro

While I agree, supporting local business is great, you should compare apples to apples. Comparing fast food to a sit down place benefits neither argument.

That's why I compared burger joints to burger joints, "fast" Mexican food joints to locally owned "fast" Mexican food joints, sit down restaurants to other similar ones, etc.

KathrynAragon · 12-07-2012, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLVgal

Quoted from above: "Why go to PF Changs when you can go to Julians?"

I happen to like PF Changs a lot and many people consider me a foodie. I have a son at the CIA where people such as Anthony Bourdain trained, so we talk about food around here quite often.

I love the off-the-beaten-path establishments, but I know good shrimp in lobster sauce when I taste it as well.

I go to PF Changs occasionally - sure it's got some good food. But it is lacking in LOCAL FLAVOR - that's all I'm talking about. You've been to one PF Changs, you've been to all of them. Same with Chilis and Ruby Tuesdays and the Olive Garden, etc etc.

I'm not hating on PF Changs - but I personally prefer to support locally owned businesses who make it a point to offer fabulous food/products and great service.

oregonwoodsmoke · 12-07-2012, 05:55 PM

I have to wonder why you think you should be entertained non-stop?

Americans tend to be price shoppers and expensive decorating and fancy buildings cost a lot of money and that raises the prices. If you (generic you) would like to spend a lot of money on dinner, you can go to some gorgeous restaurants with outstanding decor. You have to pay for that decorating.

Me, what I want in a restaurant is "Clean".

I've been to shops in several countries and the shops all look pretty much the same to me. A Mammoth in France looks just like a Fred Meyers in Oregon. Boots in Britain looks just like the drugs stores in the USA. A produce store is a produce store whether it is on Germany, Scotland, Canada, or New York City. I'm not seeing lots of "fun" in stores in other countries.