Cracker Barrel announced it would close some locations this 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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1. IHOP
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.
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2. Texas Roadhouse
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.
3. Applebee’s
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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4. Red Robin
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.
5. Denny’s
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.
6. Ruby Tuesday
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.
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7. 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.
8. Culver’s
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.
9. Chili’s
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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10. Olive Garden
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.
11. Waffle House
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.
12. 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.
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13. The Cheesecake Factory
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.
14. First Watch
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
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.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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