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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has been a staple in American dining since 1969. These charming restaurants, conveniently located near interstates, attract travelers with their inviting atmosphere, signature southern hospitality, and a diverse menu that caters to various tastes.
However, recent changes to Cracker Barrel’s décor have sparked debate among loyal patrons. Many believe the restaurant is losing its traditional charm as it undergoes a significant makeover.
Rachel Love, a 38-year-old Tennessee native and devoted Cracker Barrel enthusiast, brought attention to the issue through a viral TikTok video. In her clip, she expressed her dismay over the updated appearance of a local Cracker Barrel.
“When Cracker Barrel took away the last piece of nostalgia you had left,” she captioned, showcasing the modernized interior that features stark white walls and an enormous mural.
The video quickly garnered thousands of views and comments from fellow Cracker Barrel fans. Many shared Love’s sentiments, expressing disappointment over the changes and calling for a return to the restaurant’s original aesthetic.
Upon seeing the renovations, Love described her reaction as one of shock. “I thought they were priming it to paint it brown again,” she recalled, referring to the previous design.(See the video at the top of this article.)
Beyond the color changes, the internal décor has been heavily modified as well. Love noted the lack of antiques on the walls, expressing concern that the restaurant is losing its unique touch. “The only antiques they have were on the fireplace mantle,” she added.
In response to the backlash, Sarah Moore, Cracker Barrel’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized that the essence of the restaurant remains intact. She asserted that the changes are part of a larger transformation strategy aimed at enhancing the guest experience.
“Over the past year, we have been very transparent about our transformation platform,” Moore explained. “One of our strategies is really centered on that physical guest experience.”
Moore revealed that Cracker Barrel is experimenting with various remodel styles to achieve a brighter, more welcoming ambiance without compromising its signature country charm. The revitalization plan aims to maintain the beloved elements such as the iconic rocking chairs and classic peg games.
“None of that is going away,” Moore reassured fans. “We’re just looking at ways to freshen up the experience so that we can open our doors a bit wider for more guests.”
Despite the corporation’s efforts to assuage concerns, Love reported hearing from anonymous Cracker Barrel employees who claimed that the popular retail area, where many customers enjoy browsing while waiting for a table, could also undergo changes.
Moore was quick to defend the retail concept, stating, “The retail store is such a differentiator for us. It is such an important part of our overall experience. Things that make us truly who we are—that’s not changing.”
Love’s viral video gained enough traction that Cracker Barrel reached out with a gesture of goodwill. The company sent her a gift basket filled with assorted knickknacks along with a thank-you note expressing gratitude for her love of the brand.
In interviews, Moore emphasized that Cracker Barrel values customer feedback. “What the guests asked for are things like spaces that feel brighter, that feel less cluttered, more booth seating, more seating options,” she noted, promoting comfort during dining experiences.
However, Love voiced her concerns regarding changes to the food quality, suggesting the organization is cutting corners to save costs. “I think they’re trying to save on the food costs,” she remarked.
The introduction of alcohol to the menu in recent years has also left an uneasy impression on some customers. Love stressed, “If I’m out at a nice dinner, I’ll drink. I’m not going to Cracker Barrel to drink.”
Amid these changes, customers can expect new items on the menu. Moore confirmed that menu evolution represents another significant facet of the transformation strategy. “Cracker Barrel is doubling down on our breakfast, which is a strength for us, but also expanding our dinner offerings,” she stated.
Recently, the return of “campfire” meals, which were absent since 2018, has excited many diners. The company introduced a new Campfire Shrimp Skillet, billed as “an incredible value” to enhance the overall dining experience.
Moore claimed that Cracker Barrel provides exceptional value compared to industry norms. “Our average check is $14 compared to $27 for the casual dining industry. Delicious food in abundance has always been part of our value equation,” she remarked.
Love expressed hope that the responses to her viral video would prompt Cracker Barrel to focus less on cosmetic adjustments and rekindle the passion for quality food preparation. “Prepare it with love like it used to be. That’s where it all starts,” she stated passionately.
Despite the criticisms, Cracker Barrel continues to look ahead, balancing its rich history with modern expectations. Moore affirmed that the restaurant chain is committed to evolving while honoring its legacy. “Everything we’re doing is deeply rooted in who we are,” she concluded. “It’s just about how we carry forward those things that have made us so beloved for the last 55 years while setting up for the next 55 years.”
