Step Back in Time With Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store blends a sit-down restaurant with a retail store to create a unique dining experience. The restaurant is known for its traditional American comfort food and aims to evoke the feeling of a classic country store from days gone by.
Craving some down-home cookin’? This article provides an in-depth guide to the Cracker Barrel menu, including:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Sides, desserts, and beverages
- Menu prices
- Daily specials
- Seasonal offerings
- Kids’ menu options
We’ll also cover frequently asked questions, locations, hours, and customer service information.
This guide is for anyone craving a hearty meal, interested in classic American comfort food, or planning a visit to Cracker Barrel. Our goal is to provide detailed information about the Cracker Barrel menu with prices daily specials, and other helpful details so you know what to expect and can enhance your dining experience. Come on in and grab a rocking chair!
A Deep Dive into the Cracker Barrel Menu
Let’s take a closer look at the comforting, classic dishes you can find on the Cracker Barrel menu.
Breakfast Menu: A Morning Tradition
Cracker Barrel’s breakfast menu is a celebration of Southern morning staples. You can order breakfast all day, every day.
Classic Breakfast Plates
The Old Timer’s Breakfast is a classic for a reason: two eggs, your choice of meat (bacon, sausage, or ham), grits, biscuits, and gravy. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to start the day.
The Sunrise Sampler offers a little bit of everything, including eggs, bacon, sausage, and a pancake. You can customize it with different meat choices and add-ons.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Huckleberry Pancakes are a must-try. These fluffy pancakes are infused with huckleberries and served with a dollop of whipped cream.
Breakfast Sides and Add-ons
No Cracker Barrel breakfast is complete without the legendary Hashbrown Casserole. This creamy, cheesy delight is the perfect complement to any breakfast plate.
Other breakfast staples include creamy grits, fluffy biscuits (with or without gravy), fried apples, and more. You can add these sides to any meal for around a dollar or two each.
Lunch & Dinner: Comfort Food Classics
The lunch and dinner menu is where Cracker Barrel’s comfort food shines.
Signature Dishes
Chicken n’ Dumplins is a dish that defines Cracker Barrel. Tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy broth with fluffy dumplings—it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Meatloaf and Country Fried Steak are other popular choices, both served with your choice of sides.
Don’t forget about the Friday Fish Fry, a weekly special featuring crispy, golden-fried cod fillets.
Sandwich and Burger Options
Cracker Barrel offers a variety of sandwiches and burgers, including the classic Barrel Cheeseburger. Served with your choice of toppings and sides like fries or coleslaw, these options offer a satisfying and familiar meal.
Salad Choices
For those seeking lighter fare, the Grilled Chicken Salad is a good choice. It features grilled chicken, fresh greens, and your choice of dressing. You can customize your salad with different toppings and dressings to suit your taste.
Cracker Barrel’s Many, Many Sides
Okay, let’s be honest. Sometimes you go to Cracker Barrel and just order a bunch of sides. No judgment here! They have tons of options, and the portions are generous – often served family-style, so you can share (or not!).
Some of their most popular sides include:
- Hashbrown Casserole: This is a classic Cracker Barrel dish, and for good reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
- Macaroni & Cheese: A simple but satisfying side that’s always a hit.
- Fried Apples: Sweet and cinnamon-y, these are a nice contrast to the savory dishes.
- Green Beans: A simple side dish, often cooked with bacon.
- Cole Slaw: A cool and creamy coleslaw.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy.
Cracker Barrel also offers seasonal sides, so you might find different options depending on the time of year. They also sometimes have regional variations, so the sides might differ depending on where you are.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s worth checking the nutritional information for the sides. Calorie counts vary widely depending on the dish, so you can make informed choices.
Sweet Endings: Desserts and Beverages
No trip to Cracker Barrel is complete without a little something sweet to finish off your meal. Here’s a look at the dessert and drink options.
Desserts: A Taste of Home
Cracker Barrel’s desserts are all about that cozy, down-home feeling.
Classic Pies
You can’t go wrong with a slice of their classic Apple Pie. Other favorites include the Pecan Pie and Chocolate Pecan Pie. Be sure to check the menu for calorie information on each slice. You can order a slice a la mode, too!
Cobblers and Cakes
Keep an eye out for the rotating selection of Fruit Cobblers, often seasonal favorites. And for chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Cake is a must-try, along with other cake varieties that might be on offer.
Other Sweet Treats
Don’t miss the Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake – a truly decadent treat!
Beverages: Refreshments for Every Palate
Whether you’re looking for a caffeine boost or something cool and refreshing, Cracker Barrel has a drink for you.
Coffee and Tea
Enjoy a cup of regular or decaf coffee. For tea drinkers, be sure to ask if they have the seasonal Sugar Plum Tea.
Soft Drinks and Juices
They’ve got a standard selection of soft drinks, plus juice options like orange juice and apple juice.
Lemonade and Iced Tea
You can always count on fresh lemonade and iced tea to quench your thirst!
Daily Specials, Kids’ Menu, and Dietary Considerations
Beyond the main menu, Cracker Barrel offers a rotating selection of daily specials, seasonal dishes, and options tailored for younger diners and those with dietary restrictions. Here’s a closer look:
Daily and Seasonal Specials
Cracker Barrel is known for its comforting, home-style meals, and part of that charm comes from their daily specials. While the exact offerings can vary by location, you can usually count on something special each day of the week. For example, you might find Chicken Pot Pie on Wednesdays or a hearty Meatloaf on Thursdays. Be sure to check with your local Cracker Barrel to see what’s cooking on the day you plan to visit. Prices for these specials are typically in the $10-$15 range.
And when the holidays roll around, Cracker Barrel often introduces holiday-themed menus and limited-time items. Think Thanksgiving feasts with all the trimmings, or special desserts during the Christmas season. These seasonal offerings are a great way to celebrate with classic comfort food.
Kids’ Menu: Options for Younger Guests
Cracker Barrel’s kids’ menu has plenty of choices to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll find classics like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, grilled cheese sandwiches, and mini pancakes. Most kids’ meals come with a side and a drink, and they’re typically priced around $6-$8.
While Cracker Barrel doesn’t explicitly publish detailed nutritional information for their kids’ meals, the portion sizes are generally smaller and more appropriate for younger appetites. You can always ask your server for more information about ingredients and preparation methods if you have specific concerns.
Dietary Considerations
If you have dietary restrictions, navigating the Cracker Barrel menu can be a bit tricky. Here’s what you should know:
- Vegetarian Options: Cracker Barrel does offer some vegetarian dishes, but they are limited. Standouts include the Vegetable Plate (choose four sides), the Grilled Cheese Sandwich, and the House Salad. Be sure to confirm that your sides are prepared without meat products.
- Gluten-Free Options: Gluten-free options are also somewhat limited. Some locations offer gluten-free crackers or bread upon request. Grilled or baked meats without breading are generally safe, but always double-check with your server about preparation methods and potential cross-contamination.
- Allergen Information: Cracker Barrel does not have a comprehensive allergen menu available online. It’s crucial to speak directly with your server or a manager about your specific allergies before ordering. They can help you identify dishes that are safe for you and ensure that your meal is prepared with extra care to avoid cross-contamination.
Prices, Locations, and Customer Service
Ready to plan your Cracker Barrel visit? Here’s some helpful information about prices, locations, and how to get in touch with customer service.
Cracker Barrel Menu Prices
Cracker Barrel aims to offer comforting meals at reasonable prices. Breakfast entrees generally range from about $8 to $15, while lunch and dinner plates typically fall between $10 and $20. Of course, prices can vary.
For example, you might find the Old Timer’s Breakfast priced around $10, while a Homestyle Chicken dinner could be about $16. Don’t forget dessert! Sweet treats like Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake are usually in the $4 to $7 range.
Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on location and seasonal menu changes, so it’s always a good idea to check the menu at your specific Cracker Barrel.
Cracker Barrel Locations and Hours
With over 600 locations across the United States, there’s likely a Cracker Barrel near you! The easiest way to find one is to use the online store locator on the Cracker Barrel website. Just enter your city or zip code, and it will show you the closest restaurants.
For example, there are several Cracker Barrel locations in the Nashville, TN area, and a few scattered around the Atlanta, GA metro area.
Most Cracker Barrel locations are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but hours can vary, especially on holidays. It’s always a good idea to check the specific hours of operation for your local restaurant before you head out.
Customer Service
Need to get in touch with Cracker Barrel customer service? You can call them at 1-800-333-9566. You can also find helpful information on their website and through their mobile app.
Cracker Barrel offers gift cards, which make great presents for friends and family. While they don’t currently have a formal rewards program, be sure to sign up for their email list to receive special offers and promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cracker Barrel still have five-dollar meals?
Ah, the five-dollar meal… a simpler time, wasn’t it? Unfortunately, due to rising costs, Cracker Barrel doesn’t offer any meals for exactly five dollars anymore. Prices are subject to change and can vary by location, so it is always best to double check the menu at your local Cracker Barrel before you order!
To Conclude
Cracker Barrel’s menu is a celebration of classic American comfort food, offering everything from hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners. Whether you’re craving pancakes and bacon, chicken and dumplings, or a juicy burger, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond the food, Cracker Barrel provides a unique dining experience. The combination of a restaurant and a country store creates a nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere that’s hard to resist. It’s a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal and browse for unique gifts and treats.
If you’re looking for a taste of home-style cooking and a dose of Southern charm, I encourage you to visit your local Cracker Barrel. Before you go, check their website for the most current menu offerings and prices. You’re sure to find something you’ll love!