9 Eateries Rochester SHOULD Have But Doesn’t

While it gets better every single year with the arrival of new restaurants, bars and businesses in the area, there are some popular eateries that this area NEEDS that we don't have!

1) Chick-fil-A -- I mean, you can get a chicken sandwich just about anywhere, but let's face it... it's just not the same as Chick-fil-A!  I had my first one down in Alabama last spring, and I immediately knew what the buzz was all about!  We just need to get one.  'Nuff said... Rumors are we COULD be getting one though, so fingers crossed!

2) SONIC -- My wife would probably prefer that I put this at #1, but since it's MY list it goes here. She reminds me EVERY. DAY. that we need one.  In fact, we lived right across the street from one when we lived in Fargo last year, and she claims we didn't truly take advantage of it. Deep down I agree. Plus, it's annoying to see commercial after commercial on TV and to know there isn't one around here for miles!  Not fair man, not fair.

3) Hardee's -- It's been 15 LONG years since Rochester last had a Hardee's in town, and we've suffered long enough! There's been rumors of the franchise returning soon-ish, but that's what they are, rumors. The problem is I always had one within driving distance growing up, and was even spoiled in college while attending Winona State where I could grab a Hot Ham n' Cheese whenever I craved it. Enough is enough. BRING IT BACK ALREADY!

4) Boston Market -- If you've never eaten there, you don't know what you're missing out on. Your taste buds will thank you if you ever stop in. SO good. We used to have one years ago. We need one again!

5) In-And-Out Burger -- Maybe THE most popular fast food joint with celebrities (or so I keep reading) and we don't have one. Don't you want the burger that Paris Hilton craves? Okay, bad example. Moving on...

6) Smashburger -- This is another burger joint that's had rumors of coming to Rochester, but those plans have been since been scrapped. At least for now! With Five Guys, Snappy Stop and my personal favorite Newt's all in town, there's no shortage of great burgers to eat. But it never hurts to have options!

7) Krispy Kreme -- We need this back, like yesterday!  Sure, the best place in the state for doughnuts is just a short drive away, at Bloedow's Bakery in Winona, but going there will take up two hours of your day in the car!  Is it worth it, HELL YES, but in the meantime, just bring back Krispy Kreme.

8) Chili's -- I've had Chili's a handful of times, and have NEVER been disappointed. Their appetizers are some of the best, plus you can never go wrong with their baby back ribs!

9) White Castle -- This is truly one of those place where there's no "grey area." You either LOVE it, or HATE it! So many places pretend to have sliders... but nothing gives you that feeling of satisfaction like a White Castle slider. Harold and Kumar would certainly agree if you ask them, or even this Facebook page that was created by a friend of mine more than three years ago...

What do you think of my list? Are there any places I missed? If you could choose just one place on here, which would it be?