NYC used to be interesting, textured, unique, rough around the edges, etc. Over the last three decades that personality has been squeezed out in favor of a safe, mall-esque version of a once leading and creative city. The color beige comes to mind.

True story: Approx 10 to 12 years ago I met a friend (from London) in NYC. "Let's grab a coffee". We walked a good 40 to 50 blocks before we found a *not* Starbucks (or similar). Apparently, only Big Franchise Inc can afford the rents now.

Why wouldn't NYC join the rest of the country in the homogenization of consumer taste?