Cracker Barrel

Reality Check: Decadent meal choices are also proliferating, for a lot more than $5.

The segment and its sub-sectors like the buffets market haven't had an easy time post-pandemic, prompting many members of the old guard to arm themselves with shiny new upstarts as future growth vehicles. But there's still plenty of effort being spent on helping the longtime leaders keep their footing, as this look at the Top 10 shows.

The segment's old guard is striving to amp up its traditional strength of providing value, but with more relevant and higher-quality menu options.