I'm a Houlihan's fan. It's REALLY fast, the service is unfailingly delightful (their wait staff rocks) and the food is consistent. I always order the same thing (grilled chicken sandwich with a cheese-stuffed portobello mushroom on top), so consistency matters to me. I've only ever gone there for lunch, and have always been seated immediately - maybe that's the secret to avoiding the long wait times other reviewers have mentioned.
While there's nothing particularly flashy or fancy about Houlihan's, I like knowing I can count on a fast, yummy lunch served to me by someone pleasant and helpful. It's my standby.