A year ago, I found Cracker Barrel’s food underwhelming. This time around, armed with their newly revamped menu, I returned to see if they’d turned things around. Their efforts are evident, with some dishes truly shining, while others still need some attention.
My visit began with the S’mores Latte, generously topped with whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs. While the initial sweetness was a bit overwhelming, the underlying coffee flavor was pleasant enough once I worked through the copious cream. A more balanced sweetness would elevate this drink considerably.
Next came the Cinnamon Roll Skillet, a delightful presentation of six warm cinnamon rolls in a cast-iron skillet. This felt very much like a comforting, homemade treat.
The star of the show, however, was the Signature Pancake Plate with Blueberry Pancakes. These were exceptional – fluffy, light, and bursting with fresh blueberry flavor. The syrup, surprisingly fruity rather than overly sweet, perfectly complemented the pancakes. These are a must-try!
Unfortunately, the biscuits, a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, remained a disappointment. Even fresh from the oven, they possessed a slightly sour taste that left much to be desired. It’s a baffling shortcoming for a chain that prides itself on its Southern heritage.
I also sampled the Campfire Meal with beef, a limited-time offering making a welcome comeback. This dish truly shone, delivering a home-cooked taste and tender beef and vegetables. The cornbread, while moist, lacked a punch of flavor; a bit more salt or sweetness would have made it perfect. The experience was reminiscent of those cherished family meals.
The service, however, left something to be desired. My server seemed eager to rush my meal and get me to pay, which felt odd given the relatively low occupancy of the restaurant.
Overall, Cracker Barrel has clearly made progress. The new pancake offerings are fantastic, and the Campfire Meal is a nostalgic delight. However, the biscuits still need significant improvement. While the menu improvements are a positive step, Cracker Barrel’s journey towards consistently memorable food is still ongoing. Their commitment to menu innovation is a promising sign, and future visits will be necessary to see if they truly deliver on their potential.
