IHOP

I'm a firm believer in trying very hard not to review chain restaurants, because 1) they're always going to be around, much like cockroaches and sea turtles, so what's the point in giving a one star review, and 2) I'm pretty sure no one wants to read about the local McDonalds unless a knife fight broke out over the last packet of French fries. But see: Bodos, Raising Cane's, TGI Friday's, and Ruby Tuesdays.

Last year post-journal try out competition (one of the many hellish hazing rituals that law school brings) was the first time I've ever been to an IHOP's. The original founders must have really loved their pancakes, because they wanted a restaurant devoted to the pancake as an art form, in that they hoped to feature more exotic versions of pancakes, like blintzes and crepes. There's also the four different kinds of maple syrup, but I'm still waiting for the bacon-flavored one to come out any day now. I I think I'll stick with the breakfast foods and skip the regular dishes - I had the crispy chicken salad once, and they must have transferred the chicken right from the fryer onto the salad, because I was left with a disarmingly hot salad. The 2x2x2 is a big favorite, especially when it's only $5. Also, yes, it's dingy and worn around the eyes, but it's bright and clean for the most part, and the waiters are always very chipper.

Thursdays are UVA student discount days. I'm not sure exactly what the discount entails but pancakes are somehow involved.

Definitely hit or miss at this location service-wise.  If Tony's there, you're set and well cared for, if not, you're in trouble.  Reliable IHOP food you expect.  They get three stars for satisfying the pancake cravings, but not more because the service is spotty.

Love the Thursday discounts for UVA students. Just awesome food after studying for exams.