On McBroadway

The marquee shines brightly in the Times Square Theater District. The world is franchised. But it has to fit in, even though the menu and the logo are recognizable anywhere. Even Times Square is no longer safe from the McDonaldizing.

It may now be safe for families (there's a Toys-R-Us and a Disney Store there, too). But safe isn't necessarily always better. It's no longer quite as unique an experience as it used to be.