The Cracker Barrel controversy has sparked heated discussions across social media and news platforms. From its old-fashioned charm to recent issues involving politics, culture, and internal policies, Cracker Barrel has found itself at the center of public debate.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s really happening, how people are reacting, and what this means for the beloved Southern-themed restaurant chain.
Founded in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store was designed to offer a slice of Southern hospitality. With its rocking chairs, fireplace, country store, and homestyle food, the chain grew fast. Today, Cracker Barrel has more than 660 locations across the United States.
It’s known for comfort food, nostalgic decor, and a cozy, rural vibe. However, in recent years, the brand has struggled to stay out of the spotlight for the wrong reasons.
The Cracker Barrel controversy isn’t just about one issue. Instead, it’s a combination of several moments that have drawn strong opinions from customers, employees, and the media.
These moments have made some customers feel conflicted about their loyalty to the chain. Let’s break each one down.
One of the biggest sparks of the Cracker Barrel controversy came when the company took stances—or tried not to—on certain political and social issues.
In one instance, Cracker Barrel received criticism from conservative customers when it added plant-based “Impossible Sausage” to the breakfast menu. This move was praised by health-conscious and younger diners, but it triggered a boycott from others who saw it as a “woke” move.
On the flip side, Cracker Barrel has also been criticized in the past for not being inclusive enough. Some civil rights lawsuits and accusations of discrimination haunted the brand for years, even though the company has since pledged to make changes.
Several online forums and employee review platforms have featured concerning stories from past and current Cracker Barrel staff. These include:
In some cases, these complaints have led to protests or social media campaigns calling for better treatment and transparency from the company.
While Cracker Barrel maintains that it values its employees, the persistent complaints have become part of the larger controversy surrounding the brand.
In addition to plant-based items, Cracker Barrel has made other changes that shocked loyal diners. Some of these include:
These shifts were meant to keep the brand competitive, especially as newer restaurant chains grab market share. However, longtime customers sometimes feel like their favorite comfort food restaurant is moving too far from its roots.
Social media has played a major role in spreading the Cracker Barrel controversy. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok are full of people sharing opinions—good and bad.
Here are some of the most common reactions:
Hashtags like #BoycottCrackerBarrel and #CrackerBarrelControversy have trended multiple times, often tied to a new decision or leaked internal information.
Cracker Barrel has been careful with its public responses. Most often, the company issues brief statements or social media posts to address specific concerns.
In the plant-based sausage case, Cracker Barrel simply said:
“Our mission is to please all guests, and that means offering a variety of choices for everyone.”
The brand has also committed to diversity and inclusion training and increasing transparency in its corporate practices. Still, many critics feel the responses are too vague or come too late.
Interestingly, while there’s been plenty of online chatter, Cracker Barrel’s financial performance has been mixed. Some quarters show growth in sales and foot traffic, while others reflect dips that could be tied to backlash.
Like many businesses post-pandemic, Cracker Barrel faces challenges with:
The controversy may not be the biggest threat, but it adds another layer of complexity in managing customer trust.
We looked at online reviews, Reddit threads, and Facebook comments to get a feel for what people are saying about Cracker Barrel in 2025. Here are a few common themes:
“I’ve been going there for 20 years, but lately it just feels different.”
– Facebook Comment
“I don’t care what sausage they serve. I just want fast service again.”
– Yelp Review
“Cracker Barrel has gone corporate. It used to feel like home.”
– Reddit Thread
Still, some fans remain loyal:
“Honestly, I love the new menu and the fact that they’re trying to modernize.”
– Twitter User
The Cracker Barrel controversy highlights a bigger conversation happening in many parts of America: how brands should evolve without losing their identity.
Some say Cracker Barrel should double down on its traditions. Others believe it must change to stay relevant. The truth probably lies somewhere in between.
Whether you’re a fan, a critic, or just curious, one thing is clear—Cracker Barrel continues to be more than just a restaurant. It’s a reflection of cultural values, shifting expectations, and the growing pains that come with staying relevant in a divided world.
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