Breaking bread at chain restaurants could help break class barriers, study says

A new study titled “Rubbing Shoulders” finds that chain restaurants have the potential to break class barriers, attracting diners from all income levels. (Associated Press)

On a rainy day when his construction company calls off its workers, James Williams likes to go to the Applebee’s on Chicago’s Northwest Side and dine with his wife, Shawn.

Applebee’s has “decent deals, they have great prices, oh, and they have great drinks,” said Williams, 60, of Belmont Cragin.