After months of resisting change, the American restaurant chain Cracker Barrel has finally listened to its devoted customers. The company, famed for its Southern comfort food, announced on Tuesday that it is bringing back two beloved menu items due to overwhelming public demand.
Classic Comfort Food Makes a Comeback
The dishes returning to the menu are the Hamburger Steak and Eggs in the Basket. Thomas Yun, Cracker Barrel's vice president of menu strategy and innovation, stated that winter is a time for comfort and connection, which these classics perfectly provide. He confirmed the decision was straightforward, as the items are not only timeless favourites with a long history on the menu but are also among the most requested by guests.
The Hamburger Steak has been a staple since the chain first opened in 1969. It features seasoned, juicy beef topped with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, served with a choice of two or three traditional sides.
Eggs in the Basket is described as a nostalgic breakfast classic. It consists of two slices of golden-grilled sourdough bread with an egg cooked in the centre, accompanied by a choice of bacon or sausage and one classic side dish.
Both items are part of Cracker Barrel's Meals for Two value offering, available all day Monday through Friday for $19.99.
A Reversal After Intense Scrutiny
This move to honour tradition marks a significant shift for the chain, which has faced considerable criticism in recent months. In August, under the leadership of CEO Julie Felss Masino, Cracker Barrel sparked outrage by scrapping its classic 'Old Timer' logo for a simplified design and announcing plans to modernise its restaurants and menu.
Following more than a week of mounting controversy, the company abandoned the new logo, reinstated the Old Timer, and paused its store modernisation plans. However, the chain continued to face backlash, notably on New Year's Day when it broke with a long-standing Southern tradition by not offering black-eyed peas, a dish believed to bring good luck.
Financial Strain and Identity Crisis
The company's challenges extend beyond customer sentiment. During an earnings call in December, CEO Julie Felss Masino announced corporate staff layoffs, citing the need to navigate current headwinds. The 56-year-old Tennessee-based chain reported a loss of $25 million in the last quarter, with retail sales down 8.5% year-on-year.
Analysts have questioned whether cost-cutting alone can solve the chain's problems. Retail strategist Carol Spieckerman told the Daily Mail, "You can't cost-cut your way out of an identity crisis." Customers have also complained that the food quality has declined and that favourite menu items have disappeared as part of efforts to streamline kitchen operations.
By reinstating these two classic dishes, Cracker Barrel is making a clear attempt to reconnect with its core customer base and reaffirm its traditional identity amidst a period of financial and reputational difficulty.
