This is how I feel as well. Small talk at it's best is a way to transition into more detailed topics without plunging into them headfirst.

With friends and partners, I think small talk like "How was your day?" Provide a jumping off point for what they want to talk about or, in the worst case, will result in them not wanting to talk. If someone had a terrible day and is exhausted, it doesn't help to start a conversation about the meaning of life when they probably just want to relax.