Cracker Barrel has long been a mainstay in American life, serving up homestyle comfort food and nostalgic gifts at its country-fare restaurants. But more recently, Cracker Barrel has embraced more progressive approaches for its future; for instance partnering with Impossible Foods to produce plant-based versions of its beloved pork sausage product line and providing discounts to first responders.
However, the company hasn’t been immune from controversy; most recently igniting outrage on social media with its statement and initiatives for Pride Month 2021 as well as placing rainbow-colored rocking chairs within its restaurants. Last week, Cracker Barrel accidentally found itself embroiled in an ongoing culture war after conservative political advocacy nonprofit Texas Family Project posted screenshots of Cracker Barrel’s statements and initiatives on its Twitter feed.
This restaurant specializes in traditional Southern cuisine and each location resembles an old-fashioned general store, complete with wooden rocking chairs on its front porch, stone fireplace and decorative artifacts from local communities. They partner with country music performers and organize charitable activities.
Cracker Barrel offered special military and first responder discounts prior to the coronavirus pandemic in order to recognize those who serve. Their website details this offer by stating that police officers, firefighters, nurses, EMTs and members of local law enforcement and medical communities may receive up to 15% discounts at their restaurant – similar to what Texas de Brazil offered its customers and similar to deals being extended during this time of pandemic outbreaks.