I agree that they're all kind of the same. I'd also add Texas Roadhouse and Cheddar's to the list.
I generally have always liked Chilis. Otherwise, they all seem similar. They all have a "lighter side" menu section that I usually order from with the same salads and stuff-without-sauce.
I agree Cheesecake Factory and Maggianos are nicer than the rest.
Fortunately I live in a town with an excellent restaurant scene and only go to the big chains when I'm visiting in-laws in small town Ohio.