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14 Great Alternatives to Cracker Barrel, as Company Announces Closures

Just because they're closing doesn't mean you're out of luck

cracker barrel old country
Updated July 2, 2025
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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

wolterke/Adobe ihop restaurant exteior

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

Brett/Adobe texas roadhouse restaurant sign

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

jetcityimage/Adobe applebees neighborhood grill

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

Chad Robertson/Adobe red robin gourmet burgers

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

jovannig/Adobe dennys food restaurant

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

jetcityimage/Adobe ruby tuesday casual restaurant

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

Brett/Adobe black bear diner

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

jetcityimage/Adobe culvers fast casual location

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

Joseph Hendrickson/Adobe chilis bar and grill

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

jetcityimage/Adobe garden italian restaurant

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

billtster/Adobe waffle house street sign

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

Joseph Hendrickson/Adobe buffalo wild wings

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

imtmphoto/Adobe woman with shopping bags at mall

July is here, and with Independence Day on the horizon, it’s the peak of summer. That also means peak season for red-hot deals and unbeatable savings. Now’s the time to save big on:

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  • For grocery savings, grab seasonal produce like watermelon, peaches, and tomatoes

As fireworks fill the skies, retailers are quietly making room for back-to-school inventory. That means July is your chance to scoop up summer favorites while the deals are still blazing.

The Cheesecake Factory

JHVEPhoto/Adobe cheektowaga cheesecake factory from outside

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

Monkey Business/Adobe attractive waitress serving multi ethnic friends

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

JHVEPhoto/Adobe first watch restaurant sign

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

jetcityimage/Adobe cracker barrel old country store

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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