I agree with this to an extent. Like I said, I like IHOP well enough. However, if there were a locally-owned restaurant nearby that served breakfast, I'd prefer to patronize it, even if it did cost more. Sadly, there isn't one. I live in metro Atlanta but not in an area with a wealth of dining options that aren't chains.

I rarely go out to eat at all these days -- toddler, limited income -- but I do try to go to the locally-owned restaurants on our tiny "Main Street." They actually aren't pricier than comparable chains (we have an Irish-themed pub, a Cajun/Creole restaurant, a pizza joint, and a BBQ place) and the service and atmosphere can't be beat. And honestly, it makes me feel good to give money to people who are part of the community.