Standardization is the key to the success of chains. People want to know what they're getting. I can understand that. With few exceptions, the only time we eat at fast food chains is when we're traveling. If we're staying somewhere, we'll seek out the local experience, but while we're on the road, there's something to be said for knowing exactly what you're getting. That's why the growth of chain restaurants parallels the growth of freeways.

The Internet and shows like Diners and Dives are a godsend to independent restaurants. Via Google or a Smartphone ap, we can look up restaurants along with sights, events, local weather and road construction. Thanks to shows like Diners and Dives, we'll try out those plainer looking places in hopes of finding the world's best pulled pork sandwich or jerk chicken.