Not all national chains are garbage. I agree on MIDAS (they almost ruined my engine by overtorquing a spark plug and didn't even do half the things I asked), but I've had some other shops do amazing jobs, and this after visiting several different locations.
One of these being America's Tire. Low prices and exceptional service. I had tires balanced there for $15 a tire and they even took the time to talk with me about what they were doing, how they were doing it etc. and on top of that polished my rims and tires. Who does that anymore? Plus their warranties and services are better than anyone else AND at a lower price than anyone else!
Back on topic though, to the OP: Ask your co-workers or local family members where they go. Before long you'll have a few people recommending the same couple of quality mom-and-pop shops that do a great job and work with you. I had one such place where the owner Greg knew me and helped me out when I was in a bind and my Pickup wasn't running and didn't have the money. Unfortunately he sold the place and the new owner doesn't care anymore, but for a while I had a great relationship going. He helped me with odd jobs and such and I brought him consistent business.