Why Is Cheddar’s So Cheap?
Because low prices are the whole idea. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is built to serve big, made from scratch portions for less than most sit down chains, and its owner, Darden Restaurants, gives it serious buying power.
Five reasons Cheddar’s prices stay low
| Reason | How it keeps prices down |
|---|---|
| Value is the brand | Since it opened in Texas in 1979, Cheddar’s has positioned itself as the affordable sit down option |
| Darden scale | Darden buys beef, chicken, produce and supplies for hundreds of restaurants, which lowers costs |
| Focused menu | Comfort food staples share ingredients across dishes, which cuts waste |
| High volume | Large, busy restaurants spread fixed costs across more meals |
| Casual setting | No white tablecloth service or expensive extras built into the price |
How Cheddar’s prices compare
| Item | Cheddar’s | Typical casual chain |
|---|---|---|
| Homestyle side | $2.99 | $3.99 to $4.99 |
| Signature bread or rolls | $1.99 Honey Butter Croissants | Often free with entrees, extra orders cost more |
| Chicken entree | About $13 to $15 | About $15 to $19 |
| Weekday lunch special | From about $8.79 | About $10 to $12 |
How to get the most value at Cheddar’s
- Order from the weekday lunch specials, which start well under $10.
- Add an order of Honey Butter Croissants for about $1.99, one of the best deals on the menu.
- Choose entrees that include two sides, since sides alone are $2.99 each.
- Look for the family bundles to go, which feed four to six people.
See every price, from appetizers to desserts, on the Cheddar’s menu.
Related Questions
Why is Cheddar’s cheaper than other chains?
Its value focused menu, high volume restaurants and the buying power of its owner, Darden Restaurants, let it charge less than most casual dining chains.
Who owns Cheddar’s?
Darden Restaurants, which also owns Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, has owned Cheddar’s since 2017.
Is Cheddar’s food made from scratch?
Many items are made in the restaurant, including its Honey Butter Croissants and homestyle sides.
How much are sides at Cheddar’s?
Homestyle sides are about $2.99 each.
Does Cheddar’s have lunch specials?
Yes. Weekday lunch specials start from about $8.79 at most locations.
Where was the first Cheddar’s?
Arlington, Texas, in 1979.
More on Cheddar’s
About this guide. USA Food Menu is an independent reference site and is not affiliated with Cheddar’s or Darden Restaurants. Prices are typical and vary by location. See current prices on the Cheddar’s menu.
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