Oct 29, 2001 05:53 PM
9892 Views
I've been a fan of Wendy's since the days of their classic commercials with Clara Peller asking ''Where's the beef?''. My job involves home visiting and I'm frequently on the road at lunch time. My number one preference is an area based sub shop chain that offers lots of fresh salads and pita sandwiches and real soup. When I can't get there, you can find me at Wendy's. Why?
The salads-You can always count on a fresh salad. Add chicken or chili (Taco salads are my favorite) for protein and you have a decent lunch. When you order a salad with hot and cold components (like the taco salad), they pack them separately- a nice touch if you are traveling a bit before eating.
The Potatoes. A broccoli and cheese potato provides protein, veggies and complex carbs that will stay with you through the afternoon. The potatoes are large and hot and well cooked. The one time I had an undercooked one-it was immediately replaced. A plain potato and small chili also make a great lunch.
The Pitas-They aren't available in every Wendy's anymore which is disappointing but where they are, they are a great choice-fresh pitas and crisp salad.
The specialty sandwiches. Wendy's always has a grilled chicken sandwich and they are very accommodating about serving them without sauce. For those occasional days when nutrition just isn't the priority (and we all have them) I go for the spicy chicken.
The Burgers. Clara knew what she was talking about. Wendy's burgers actually taste like burgers and they are grilled so there isn't a greasy feel.
Iced Tea. This is a small thing but Wendy's is the only fast food restaurant where I can get a nice tall cup of plain iced tea.-no flavorings or sweeteners. They also will add lemon wedges. This is a great alternative to carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners.
Wendy's also has several other items of note-the fries are good and not greasy. My guys like the frosties.
Staffing as in all fast food restaurants can be inconsistent-but for the most part, the franchises in our area have friendly capable staff.
All in all, for fast food-it's pretty good.
Oh, one more thing I like about Wendy's? Dave Thomas. In addition to the accomplishment of building a business from nothing, Dave is true to his principles. Wendy's regularly donates to children's charities (especially adoption). It's nice to know a few pennies of your lunch goes someplace worthwhile.