Prices last updated: October 29, 2026
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is an American restaurant chain known for Southern comfort food, breakfast served all day and the country store attached to every restaurant. Here is what Cracker Barrel is, where it came from and what it is famous for.
A restaurant and a country store
Every Cracker Barrel combines a sit-down restaurant with an “Old Country Store” selling nostalgic candy, toys, seasonal decor, clothing and food like pancake mix and preserves. Guests often browse the store while they wait for a table, and the famous rocking chairs on the front porch are for sale too.
History
Dan Evins opened the first Cracker Barrel in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, as a place for travelers on the new interstate highways to stop for a home-cooked meal and gas. The chain grew along the interstates and today has more than 650 stores in over 40 states. The name comes from the barrels of soda crackers that old general stores kept by the counter, where neighbors gathered to talk.
What is Cracker Barrel known for?
- Breakfast all day: plates like the Old Timer’s Breakfast and Momma’s Pancakes from open to close.
- Chicken n’ Dumplins: on the menu since 1969; see Chicken n’ Dumplins.
- Hashbrown Casserole and biscuits: the most loved sides.
- The peg game: a triangle peg puzzle on every table.
- Rocking chairs and a fireplace: the classic front porch and cozy dining room.
What does Cracker Barrel cost?
Breakfast plates typically cost about $7 to $15, lunch and dinner entrées about $11 to $15 with sides and biscuits, and weekday lunch features about $9.99. See the full Cracker Barrel menu with prices.
Cracker Barrel today
In recent years Cracker Barrel has added a rewards program, online ordering and delivery, and beer, wine and mimosas at some stores. In 2025 a new logo without the classic “Old Timer” figure drew a strong backlash and was quickly reversed; read the Cracker Barrel logo controversy.
Find one near you
See our Cracker Barrel near me guide and hours.
What is Cracker Barrel? FAQ
Why is it called Cracker Barrel?
The name comes from the barrels of soda crackers that old general stores kept on the counter, where people gathered to talk.
When did Cracker Barrel open?
The first Cracker Barrel opened in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, founded by Dan Evins.