The wife and I just had a Breakfast meal at Cracker Barrel this morning and while Cracker Barrel does have some pretty good pancakes, all be it they are quite sweet tasting, there really isn't any comparison when it comes to their other breakfast offerings compared to say Waffle House.
For instance the eggs at Cracker Barrel are at best medium in size and most likely small whereas the eggs at Waffle House are Large to Jumbo in size and the difference is noticeable. The meats are also much better at Waffle House and price wise Waffle House gives you more for the money. Where Cracker Barrel excels is more in the atmosphere and Cracker Barrel is much better at addressing problems when they occur often adjusting the ticket in addition to fixing the problem. My last problem at Waffle House did net a call from someone in Management, due to my online complaint, but there was no offer to make up for the problem and ruined meal. That said I've ate at Waffle House many times more than Cracker Barrel and in all those times only had one problem so even though there wasn't anything done to atone for the mistake you really can expect that what you get is going to be what you order and it's going to be right at Waffle House. Seating at Cracker Barrel also gets the nod and at least there you can bring a large family or group and set together whereas at Waffle House there are no such accommodations.
All in all if it comes to wanting to get my money's worth and have the best breakfast experience I'm going to chose Waffle House over Cracker Barrel or at least that's my experience and take on it.
Now one other comment regarding Breakfast venues and that concerns McDonald's, Bojangles, Jacks, and Hardees. Of these Jacks has a local following that seems steady and there are lots of things to like about Jacks. McDonald's does offer specials at times but lately they are trying to make up for some lost profits and have done away with the free senior drinks and you can't even expect to find a complementary newspaper to read while you eat. Bojangles on the other hand still offers a free drink to seniors and their food is always hot and fresh or at least I've had no complaints in that area. Hardees on the other hand has lost lots of business to Bojangles and McDonald's and even Jacks and in my opinion has gone downhill in most every way. Frankly I don't know how the Florence location remains profitable even while having one of the best locations in the Shoals. I'm sure I'm missing lots of other good places (Staggs Grocery being one of them) but there are lots that I just haven't gotten around to trying so hopefully others will share their experiences and thoughts and recommendations.