Chefs recommend these restaurants for classic meat and comfort food.
Few comfort foods are as satisfying as a meaty lunch. While homemade is hard to beat, several restaurant chains have gained a loyal following for serving thick slices of flavorful meat with classic sides like fries, gravy, and green beans. To find the highlights, eat this, not that! he asked Emma Sullivanhome cook and recipe developer at DailyCookingRecipe.comwhat restaurants does he recommend when he gets a craving for meatloaf.
Cracker Barrel
When it comes to traditional Southern comfort food, Sullivan says the chain remains the gold standard for meatloaf. “Cracker Barrel Meat it’s the one I compare everything else to,” he says. “A thick-cut tomato glaze, served with original sides made from scratch. Mashed potatoes are fat and real – not instant. It tastes like something your grandma pulled out of the oven on Sunday, which is exactly what it is.”
NORMS
Sullivan says for dinner with generous portions NORMS’ the meat is worth it. “NORMS’ Ultimate Meatloaf is comfort food done right. The meat is moist and flavorful, then topped with crispy gravy, bacon and garlic mushrooms. Paired with classic diner fries and sides, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps people coming back.”
Denny
Denny is known for its delicious food, and while the chain only serves meat in season, Sullivan says it’s worth the wait. “If you’re looking for a cheap meat lunch any time of day, it’s hard to beat Denny’s,” he says. The steak is served with two thick slices, brown gravy, mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables—available all day, which I love.” He adds. “At this price point, it’s the most satisfying steak dinner you’ll find anywhere.”
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery Offering an unforgettable sweet tooth with crispy onions and beef broth, Sullivan says the chain is an incredible place for classic comfort food, especially its hearty meat platter. “The meatloaf is dense, well seasoned, with homemade brown gravy and a generous portion,” he says. “Finish with a slice of their fresh-baked pie and it’s a meal worth driving out of your way.”
Black Bear Kitchen
Sullivan says for the generous portions and comfort of the old kitchen Black Bear Kitchen offers one of the best meat dishes among national chains. “Black bears rely on comfort food, and bread is exactly what you would hope for,” he said. “Thick chunks, rich beef gravy, creamy mashed potatoes and vegetables on the side. The portions are generous, but more importantly, it feels like a true diner classic.”
Heather Newgen
Heather Newgen has two decades of experience reporting and writing about health, fitness, entertainment and travel. Heather is now freelance in several publications. Read more about Heather
