Introduction
As a food menu owner, I know what makes a menu truly shine—flavor, consistency, and that special something that keeps customers coming back. Cracker Barrel menu with prices isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. From the moment you step inside, the cozy country store vibes, the aroma of homestyle cooking, and the promise of comfort food draw you in.
But with a menu packed with Southern classics, it can be tough to decide what to order. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Cracker Barrel regular looking to try something new, here are the top picks from the menu that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Breakfast Favorites
Cracker Barrel’s all-day breakfast is legendary, and for good reason. Whether you like sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, there’s something here for you. As someone who has spent time curating menus, I can tell you that a well-balanced breakfast menu is key to keeping customers satisfied.
Mama’s Pancake Breakfast
If you’re a pancake lover, this one’s a no-brainer. Three buttermilk pancakes come hot off the griddle, served with warm syrup and your choice of bacon or sausage. Want to take it up a notch? Add some sweet toppings like blueberry or pecan syrup.
It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you wish every meal included pancakes. From a menu perspective, pancakes are a staple because they’re comforting, cost-effective, and endlessly customizable—Cracker Barrel nails this formula.
Old Timer’s Breakfast
For those who like a hearty start to the day, this plate delivers. It includes two eggs cooked your way, grits, and your choice of fried apples or hashbrown casserole (hint: go for the hashbrown casserole). Plus, it comes with either bacon, sausage, or country ham and a side of biscuits with gravy.
Essentially, it’s everything you want in a traditional Southern breakfast. When designing a breakfast menu, I always ensure there’s a solid balance between protein, carbs, and flavor variety—this meal checks all the boxes.
Grandpa’s Country Fried Breakfast
Feeling extra hungry? This plate doesn’t hold back. It features two eggs, a choice of hashbrown casserole or fried apples, biscuits and gravy, and—best of all—a generous portion of country fried steak or fried chicken tenders smothered in sawmill gravy. If you love crispy, tender, and smothered in goodness, this one’s a must. As someone who has tested different comfort food offerings, I know that a well-executed country-fried steak can be a game-changer for any menu.
Classic Homestyle Lunch and Dinner Picks
Lunch and dinner at Cracker Barrel are all about comforting, made-from-scratch meals that taste like they came straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Here are the dishes that stand out.
Chicken n’ Dumplins
This is pure comfort in a bowl. The dumplings are soft and pillowy, the chicken is tender, and the creamy sauce ties it all together perfectly. It’s simple, filling, and one of Cracker Barrel’s most beloved dishes for a reason. As a food menu owner, I appreciate how this dish balances affordability with high customer satisfaction—something every restaurant should aim for.
Meatloaf Dinner
Not all meatloaf is created equal, but Cracker Barrel’s version is a cut above. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with diced tomatoes, onions, and green peppers. Served with your choice of two or three sides, this dish is as close to homemade as you can get without cooking it yourself. From my experience, a standout meatloaf is about seasoning, moisture retention, and a touch of nostalgia—Cracker Barrel nails all three.
Country Fried Steak
If crispy, golden-brown perfection is what you crave, this dish delivers. A tender beef steak is breaded, fried, and topped with rich sawmill gravy. Paired with your favorite sides (mashed potatoes and mac & cheese are solid choices), this meal is everything you love about Southern cooking on one plate. Every time I’ve had this dish, it reminds me why a great fried steak is a menu powerhouse—people love the crunch, the richness, and the hearty satisfaction it brings.
Roast Beef
Slow-cooked for 14 hours, this dish is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The roast beef is bathed in a rich brown gravy and served with your choice of sides. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a Sunday dinner, no matter what day of the week it is. From my experience in food service, slow-cooked meats are a smart addition to any menu—minimal effort, maximum flavor, and high customer return rates.
Southern Comfort Sides You Shouldn’t Skip
A Cracker Barrel meal isn’t complete without their homestyle sides. While the menu offers plenty of options, some are simply too good to pass up.
Hashbrown Casserole
This cheesy, golden, crispy-edged delight is a fan favorite for a reason. Whether you order it for breakfast or as a side for your main meal, it never disappoints. As someone who has experimented with side dish pairings, I can tell you—potato-based sides are menu gold.
Mac & Cheese
Thick, creamy, and rich, Cracker Barrel’s mac & cheese is comfort food at its finest. It’s the perfect pairing for just about any entrée on the menu.
Fried Okra
Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, this Southern staple offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. If you’ve never tried fried okra before, this is the place to do it.
Dumplings
Even if you don’t order the Chicken n’ Dumplins, you can still enjoy the dumplings as a side. Soft, doughy, and covered in a creamy sauce, they’re a must for carb lovers.
Final Thoughts
With a menu packed with so many delicious options, choosing just one dish at Cracker Barrel can be a challenge. Whether you’re there for a hearty breakfast, a homestyle dinner, or just a slice of that legendary Coca-Cola cake, you’re in for a treat.
As a food menu owner, I admire Cracker Barrel’s ability to craft a menu that feels both traditional and exciting. The next time you find yourself at Cracker Barrel, use this list as your guide—and don’t be afraid to try something new. After all, there’s a reason people keep coming back for more.