Applebee's vs Cracker Barrel: Menu Prices Compared (2026)
The short answer
Cracker Barrel is the cheaper of the two. Of the 5 directly comparable items we could match across both menus, Cracker Barrel is cheaper on 5 of them, by an average of $2.48 per item.
Deals Worth Knowing at Both
Applebee's
- The 2 for $25 menu — an appetizer plus two entrees — is roughly $10 below ordering the same three items separately and covers most of the popular dishes.
- The $9.99 weekday lunch combo pairs a half sandwich or salad with soup or fries and is the cheapest sit-down lunch at any national casual chain.
- Applebee's runs $1 and $5 cocktail promotions several times a year; the Dollarita in particular is the cheapest drink at any chain restaurant.
Cracker Barrel
- Breakfast is served all day at breakfast prices — the Old Timer's at $12.99 is cheaper than most dinner plates.
- The Country Vegetable Plate at $11.99 gives four country sides plus bread, the lowest-cost full meal on the menu.
- Cracker Barrel Rewards earns points toward free food and sends a birthday reward.
Applebee's vs Cracker Barrel — FAQ
Is Applebee's cheaper than Cracker Barrel in 2026?
Cracker Barrel is cheaper on most matched items — 5 of 5. Across the whole menu Cracker Barrel is the lower-priced of the two, at $12.29 for a typical item against $15.49 at Applebee's.
What is the price difference between Applebee's and Cracker Barrel?
On matched items the average difference is $2.48, or about 2% overall. Applebee's averages $14.56 across 42 priced items; Cracker Barrel averages $14.30 across 44.
Which has the cheaper entry price, Applebee's or Cracker Barrel?
Applebee's starts at $1.00 (Dollarita (limited promotion)) and Cracker Barrel at $3.99 (Hashbrown Casserole).
Are these prices the same at every location?
No. Both chains let franchise owners set prices, so figures move by a dollar or more between markets and run highest at airport, stadium and highway locations. Treat these as the typical U.S. price, not a quote.