Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a beloved restaurant chain known for its comforting Southern cuisine and charming, rustic atmosphere. If you’re planning to indulge in some homestyle goodness for lunch, knowing their lunch hours is key. So, What Time Does Cracker Barrel Serve Lunch? You can expect Cracker Barrel to transition from breakfast to their lunch menu starting at 11:00 AM every day. This switch signals the start of their midday service, offering a wide array of delicious Southern-inspired dishes perfect for a satisfying lunch.
Cracker Barrel’s Consistent Lunch Schedule
One of the great things about Cracker Barrel is their consistent lunch schedule across all their locations in the United States. Whether you’re in Florida, California, or anywhere in between, you can count on lunch service beginning at 11 AM local time. This standardized timing makes it easy to plan your visit, no matter where you are.
Lunch service continues throughout the afternoon and evening, typically until closing time. While closing times can vary slightly by location, most Cracker Barrel restaurants remain open for lunch until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. This generous window means you have plenty of time to enjoy your favorite lunch items, whether you’re aiming for a traditional midday meal or a later afternoon treat.
Delving into the Cracker Barrel Lunch Menu
Cracker Barrel’s lunch menu is a celebration of classic Southern home cooking. It features a diverse selection of dishes, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. From hearty meats to flavorful vegetables and comforting sides, the menu is designed to offer a satisfying and memorable lunch experience.
Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect to find on the Cracker Barrel lunch menu:
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Downhome Daily Deals: These daily specials offer great value and feature rotating dishes throughout the week. Enjoy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken on Wednesdays, Turkey N’ Dressing on Thursdays, Fish Fry on Fridays, Country Fried Pork Chops on Saturdays, and Pot Roast Supper on Sundays. These specials are a fantastic way to experience a variety of Cracker Barrel’s signature dishes.
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Cracker Barrel Favorites: This section highlights some of the restaurant’s most popular and beloved dishes. You’ll find classics like Country Fried Steak, Meatloaf, Roast Beef, Chicken N’ Dumplings, and a variety of chicken and fish options. Whether you’re craving fried, grilled, or baked, there’s a “Favorite” to satisfy.
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Signature Fried Chicken: Cracker Barrel takes fried chicken seriously, offering several distinct and flavorful options. Choose from Southern Fried Chicken, Sunday Homestyle Chicken, or Sweet N’ Smoky Glazed Tenders for a truly comforting and crispy chicken experience.
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Southern Suppers: Even though it’s called “Suppers,” this portion of the menu is perfectly suited for lunch as well. It features classic Southern dishes like Grilled Sirloin Steak, Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout, Country Fried Shrimp, and more. For lighter options, consider the Grilled Chicken or a hearty Bowl of Pinto Beans.
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Sandwiches and More: Beyond the main dishes, Cracker Barrel also offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and lighter fare. The Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken is a highly recommended sandwich, featuring grilled chicken breasts with maple glaze, bacon, melted cheese, and green onions. Another popular choice is the classic Chicken Pot Pie, filled with slow-simmered chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, topped with a flaky pastry crust.
Alt text: Cracker Barrel Chicken Pot Pie lunch dish, featuring a golden brown flaky crust.
Daily Lunch Specials to Look Forward To
Cracker Barrel’s commitment to providing variety and value is evident in their Downhome Daily Deals. These rotating lunch specials ensure that there’s always something new and exciting to try throughout the week. Here’s a quick rundown of the daily lunch specials you can anticipate:
- Wednesday: Broccoli Cheddar Chicken – A creamy and cheesy chicken dish with broccoli.
- Thursday: Turkey N’ Dressing – A Thanksgiving-inspired classic, perfect for a comforting midday meal.
- Friday: Fish Fry – Crispy and flavorful fried fish, a Southern Friday tradition.
- Saturday: Country Fried Pork Chops – Tender pork chops, breaded and fried to golden perfection.
- Sunday: Pot Roast Supper – A hearty and flavorful pot roast, slow-cooked for ultimate tenderness.
These daily specials are a fantastic way to experience a wide range of Cracker Barrel’s culinary offerings without breaking the bank. Be sure to check what the daily deal is when you visit!
More Than Just Lunch: Exploring the All-Day Menu and Beyond
While lunch is a highlight, Cracker Barrel offers more than just midday meals. Their “All Day Menu” includes breakfast items available anytime, allowing you to enjoy breakfast classics even during lunch hours. This is perfect for those who crave breakfast for lunch or simply enjoy the flexibility of all-day breakfast options.
In addition to the main courses, Cracker Barrel boasts an extensive beverage menu to complement your lunch. From classic soft drinks and freshly brewed iced tea to crafted coffees, juices, and even adult beverages like beer and wine, there’s a drink to suit every taste. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Cracker Barrel’s sweet treats, like the Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake and Peach Cobbler, are the perfect ending to a satisfying Southern lunch.
Alt text: Cracker Barrel Peach Cobbler dessert, a warm and fruity Southern classic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cracker Barrel Lunch
To further assist you in planning your lunch visit to Cracker Barrel, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What are the Cracker Barrel lunch hours?
Cracker Barrel starts serving lunch at 11:00 AM and continues until closing, typically around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
Does Cracker Barrel serve lunch all day?
No, Cracker Barrel does not serve lunch all day in the sense of a 24-hour operation. However, lunch service begins at 11:00 AM and is available until closing time each day. Before 11:00 AM, only the breakfast menu is available.
Does Cracker Barrel have vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, Cracker Barrel offers several vegetarian options on their menu. While their menu is heavily focused on Southern comfort food, vegetarian choices like salads, vegetable plates (with a variety of Southern-style sides), and certain breakfast items (available all day) provide options for those seeking meat-free meals. It’s always best to check their menu for the most up-to-date vegetarian offerings.
Does Cracker Barrel offer a lunch buffet?
No, Cracker Barrel does not offer a buffet. They operate with a traditional menu service where you order from a set menu and your food is cooked to order.
What is the lunch special at Cracker Barrel today?
Cracker Barrel’s lunch specials change daily. Refer to the “Downhome Daily Deals” section above to see the special for each day of the week. You can also check their website or contact your local Cracker Barrel to confirm the daily special.
Savoring Southern Lunch at Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel offers a reliable and delicious lunch experience with their consistent 11:00 AM start time and extensive menu of Southern comfort food classics. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying midday meal or a leisurely lunch with family and friends, Cracker Barrel is a great choice. With daily specials, signature dishes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Cracker Barrel is ready to serve up your Southern lunch favorites whenever you’re ready to enjoy them after 11 AM!
