Cracker Barrel closed a handful of locations last year, leaving fans scrambling to find a replacement.
The good news is that there are still many options for customers who want a casual restaurant with quick food at an affordable price.
So, where should you go next? Here are a few choices to stretch your restaurant budget while still eating great food.
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IHOP
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Like Cracker Barrel, IHOP has a great selection of breakfast items that you're sure to enjoy as a Cracker Barrel replacement.
IHOP has a specific menu for customers who are over 55 years old, giving you a chance to have a great breakfast like the ones you used to order at Cracker Barrel while also saving you money.
Texas Roadhouse
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Texas Roadhouse has been expanding its number of locations across the country, making it easy for you to find a new favorite spot.
The restaurant chain is known for its rolls, which come straight from the oven to your table and are served with Texas Roadhouse cinnamon butter on the side.
Applebee's
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Applebee's can be a great option if you lost your local Cracker Barrel but still want affordable dinner choices.
The chain has chicken or beef entrees similar to Cracker Barrel at comparable prices. Applebee's also has many drink options that may not have been available at your local Cracker Barrel, making for a fun new dinner spot.
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Red Robin
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Red Robin is well known for its burgers, making it a good place to try if you're craving a Cracker Barrel burger.
Mid-range price points and an extensive menu make this a great alternative go-to restaurant to keep more cash in your wallet.
Denny's
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Although Denny's may be best known for its Grand Slam breakfast, it also offers plenty of lunch and dinner options that are sure to please.
Check out the restaurant's full menu, and remember to grab some eggs, pancakes, or biscuits, like the ones you may have found at Cracker Barrel.
Ruby Tuesday
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Ruby Tuesday has plenty of fan favorites that will keep you coming back, making it a new favorite.
The restaurant's menu includes things like potato skins, burgers, and more that you can pick and choose from depending on what you want on any given night.
Black Bear Diner
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Black Bear Diner is expanding its reach, with new locations opening throughout the country. It could become your new favorite place.
The restaurant chain has a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, all served in a nostalgic rustic setting, making it a good option if you miss your Cracker Barrel.
Culver's
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This Wisconsin-based fast-food restaurant is quickly expanding and may be a great choice for comfort food.
Culver's is known for its burgers, cheese curds, and frozen custards, which come in unique flavors that vary each day from location to location.
Chili's
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If you're looking for an affordable option to stretch your food budget like you could at Cracker Barrel, check out Chili's
The chain's 3 for Me special costs $10.99 and includes more food than a typical McDonald's value meal, which may cost more. We can't forget their famous baby back ribs.
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Olive Garden
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Olive Garden is the place to go if you're craving hearty pasta and delicious endless breadsticks.
The restaurant offers menu options similar to those at Cracker Barrel and serves a solid plate of food.
Waffle House
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Waffle House is another restaurant that customers may associate with good Southern comfort food.
The chain is known for its waffles and breakfast options, which are sure to give you a good meal without busting your wallet.
Buffalo Wild Wings
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Sometimes good fried food and chicken wings are just what we're looking for on a Sunday afternoon or for a quick meal with friends.
Check out Buffalo Wild Wings if you're looking for a chicken dish that is a little different from what you expected at your local Cracker Barrel.
Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
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August is here, and with it comes the final stretch of summer. It’s a great time to soak up the season and scoop up hot deals before they fade. Look for savings on:
- Travel and getaway must-haves
- Back-to-school basics
- Clearance swimwear and warm-weather styles
- For grocery savings, grab peak-season produce, like tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and berries
As retailers shift their focus to fall, August is the last chance to snag summer essentials at unbeatable prices. Shop smart now before the season (and the savings) slip away.
The Cheesecake Factory
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One reason your family may enjoy Cracker Barrel is because everyone could find something they wanted on the menu.
That's also true for The Cheesecake Factory with its famously huge menu and wide dessert selection.
Quick tips: How to travel or dine out without going broke
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Thoughtful planning can help you maximize your travel experience without draining your wallet. Here are some tips on how to balance your adventure with a budget:
- Visit restaurants during happy hour or lunch for lower prices
- Use cashback dining apps like Seated or credit cards with travel/dining rewards
- Use price comparison tools like Hopper or Google Flights to track airfare drops
- Book accommodations with kitchens to prepare some meals yourself
You never know where your most memorable moments will come from. So consider both the emotional and financial value of an experience to find the things that are truly worth your money.
First Watch
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First Watch is a great option if Cracker Barrel was your go-to for breakfast or lunch.
The chain offers a variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options all day, as well as healthier options like quinoa bowls if you need an early bite to eat.
Bottom line
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While Cracker Barrel will be missed by fans, there are still some good places to try that can fit within your budget for dining out.
You can also check your budget to find ways to save money on groceries if you want to keep some extra cash or use your grocery savings to spend on other things like dining out.
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