I think the quality and presentation is all you need to make your decision on chains. (And if all you want to do is stuff a chunk of whatever in your face, ignore my post here).

Yes, I hate them now, and have for several years now. Main reason, as you mentioned is them destroying the Mom and Pop shops. They can afford to be in the red, having rest of the chain support them. While the couple trying to make an honest living get bumped out of business. I admit, I do stop in the drive thru, Arbys being about the only one anymore. Oh, and the chains that used to be fast for drive thru (and walk in for that matter) have totally forgot what fast food is… Sitting in a line for 10 minutes to get a 99 cent burger? I dont think so. I’ll spend the extra few bucks to get a sandwich with bread thats made fresh, and cooked to MY order. Well worth my wait.