With several Cracker Barrel locations closing, plenty of fans are left wondering where to go next. Luckily, there’s no shortage of casual dining chains ready to step in—offering comfort food, affordable menus, and friendly vibes. Whether you’re craving breakfast all day, burgers, or hearty dinners, these 14 spots give you a new go-to option. Scroll through and find your next favorite chain destination.
IHOP: Breakfast All Day, Cracker Barrel Style
If you miss Cracker Barrel’s down-home breakfast atmosphere, start with IHOP. Their pancake-and-eggs game is strong, and they offer a discounted menu for 55-plus diners—so you get those comfort-food vibes without paying a premium. It’s the kind of place you can pop into any time and still feel like you’re getting a hearty morning meal.
Waffle House: Southern Comfort, Anytime
For genuine Southern breakfast food around the clock, Waffle House is a solid fit. From waffles to biscuits to hash browns, you’ll find familiar comfort options reminiscent of what you might’ve enjoyed at Cracker Barrel. And with its casual setting, it’s easy on both your wallet and your schedule.
Black Bear Diner: Rustic Charm Meets Comfort Food
Looking for the “country-store” aesthetic too? Black Bear Diner delivers with a nostalgic rustic setting plus breakfast, lunch and dinner staples. If you miss the rustic décor and the feeling of a relaxing meal out, this chain gives you a similar atmosphere—just without the Cracker Barrel nameplate.
Denny’s: Reliable, Affordable, Comfort-Focused
Another standby is Denny’s—best known for its “Grand Slam” breakfasts but also offering lots of lunch and dinner options. Whether you’re craving pancakes at 10 a.m. or a burger later in the day, Denny’s gives you that approachable, budget-friendly comfort-food spot.
Ruby Tuesday: Pick-and-Choose, Casual Night Out
If you enjoyed Cracker Barrel’s relaxed dinner vibe, Ruby Tuesday fits the bill. Their menu includes burgers, potato skins and other crowd-pleasers that let you mix and match depending on your mood. It’s a casual spot where you don’t need to overthink your order.
Applebee’s: Familiar Favorites with a Twist
Missing Cracker Barrel’s approachable entrees? Applebee’s offers similar fare—chicken or beef mains at comparable price points. Plus, if you’re looking for drink options or a little more variety for dinner, Applebee’s might give you that upgrade without going full fine-dining.
Red Robin: Burgers and Variety for the Whole Family
When the burger craving hits, check out Red Robin. A mid-range price tag and an expansive menu make it an easy substitute for the burger or comfort-food night you’d have at Cracker Barrel. Great for families or when everyone wants something a little different.
Culver’s: Comfort Food with Fast-Food Speed
Originally from Wisconsin, Culver’s is rapidly expanding and could be exactly what you need for comfort food on the go. Think burgers, cheese curds, frozen custard—and a good break from your typical chain fare while staying budget-friendly.
Chili’s: Bigger Menu, Big Value
For a chain that gives you big menu options at solid value, go with Chili’s. Their “3 for Me” special offers more food than your typical value meal, and the mix of entrees and ribs means you can still get a comforting dinner without overspending.
Olive Garden: Pasta-Lovers’ Comfort Spot
Craving hearty plates and unlimited breadsticks? Olive Garden is your go-to. While it’s not exactly the same as a “country store” vibe, the comfort food element is solid—and if you miss Cracker Barrel’s generous plates, Olive Garden answers that call.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Wings + Casual Eats for Groups
Sometimes you just want good fried food and a laid-back setting. That’s where Buffalo Wild Wings comes in. For a casual hang out with wings, sports on screen and friends, it’s a different kind of comfort—but still a worthy substitute when the old standby is gone.
The Cheesecake Factory: Menu Marathon for Everyone
If variety was your thing at Cracker Barrel—everyone picking something different—then The Cheesecake Factory is a solid replacement. With a massive menu and expansive dessert selection, it covers all kinds of preferences in one stop.
First Watch: Breakfast and Brunch Done Right
If your Cracker Barrel visits were about breakfast or brunch, give First Watch a try. This chain offers a full breakfast/brunch menu all day, including healthier options like quinoa bowls. Ideal when you want a morning-meal vibe without the full Southern rustic theme.
Texas Roadhouse: Rolls, Ribs and the Casual Dinner Feel
For the dinner out that includes fresh rolls and a hearty plate, check out Texas Roadhouse. With expanding locations and a sticky-butter bread tradition, it channels that generous-plate energy you may have missed with Cracker Barrel.
Which Friendly Chain Will You Try Next?
Losing your local Cracker Barrel spot doesn’t mean you’re out of comfortable, inexpensive restaurant options. These 14 chains cover breakfast, burgers, brunch and hearty dinners—so your next favorite might be closer than you think. Did you find one you’ll head to next? Or did we miss your go-to replacement? Drop a comment and let us know where you’re dining this week.
