Looking at the Best Chain Restaurants of 2009

Restaurants had a rough year in 2009. As the economy continued to struggle, many restaurants had to go to extreme measures to attract customers. Many new restaurant startups didn't survive, but one given in the restaurant business is that one must offer good food and excellent service to have a chance to make it through to 2010. Let's look at my top 10 restaurants that I enjoyed in 2009.

Chili's - Chili's brought he masses in this year with its 2 for $20 promotion. Included was an appetizer, 2 entrees and a delicious dessert for $20. I great deal we took advantage of many times in 2009. Chili's is a nationwide Southwestern style chain.

Carrabba's Italian Grill - Food at chain Italian restaurants has come a long way. Carrabba's may be the best of the Italian nationwide chains. Good food at good prices. The servers are well schooled, and if you want to see how good the crew in the kitchen is, get one of the bar seats that is basically a ringside seat to the kitchen.

Outback Steakhouse - A consistent steak and a good amount of food for your money. Quick service for a steakhouse, and it's my "go to' place for a fair priced tasty meal.

Johnny Carino's - Another Italian food establishment. If you have a Johnny Carino's near you, I advise you to try it. Delicious Italian classics and some new creations. The pizza is good, and don't miss the lasagna.

Logan's Roadhouse - A fun eating experience. They give you lots of food, the way you want it. Start out with the peanuts and the yeast rolls, and move on to the main event; the steaks, salads, or chicken. It's all fantastic. There are 150 Logan's nationwide.

McDonald's - We can't forget about McDonald's. It's still the best fast food, new menu selections and many McDonald's are now adding the McCafe concept of gourmet coffees that are excellent. Kids and adults love McDonald's.

The Olive Garden - Laugh if you want to, but The Olive Garden has improved every year over the past decade. The food used to taste like chain Italian, but now it's good. They advertise a lot on television and the food looks great on the big screen. But it tastes just as good as it looks. My wife loves the salad and bread sticks too.

Joe's Crab Shack - Seafood lovers love Joe's. Over 100 locations in about 30 states, Joe's continues to thrive. Try the shrimp, the Steampots, or crab anyway you like it. Eat at Joe's.

Boston Market - A healthy fast food. The meats and veggies are all very fresh, and the service is fast. The company went through restructuring, but there still are about 100 locations. Buy your individual meal, or they sell meals ready for the whole family. A great option for holiday eating.

TGI Fridays - I, like many people head to Fridays for any of the entrees with the Jack Daniel's sauce. The menu is huge, somethings are better than others, but there is always a crowd, and they have a lively bar area.

There you have it, I focused mainly on chain restaurants, that way, there is a chance you will have one of these establishments near you.