Why do so many restaurants have a side salad that is dreadful? I am annoyed that it is such an afterthought. Not to mention I feel like I am getting ripped off. A side salad can be almost $4. Irmas, for example, I love the place, go there often, but thier side salad is horrible. Is it too much to ask for some carrots and croutons? Sadly, most places its just crappy lettuce in a bowl with dressing. Pearls and Iron Starr come to mind as having a good side salad, but why is a crappy side salad so easily served at otherwise good places?