A Closer Look at Vegetarian Options at Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a beloved southern-style restaurant chain known for its home-cooked meals and traditional favorites. With locations across the United States, it’s a staple for road trips and family outings.
Over the years, there has been a growing demand for plant-based options, and Cracker Barrel has responded by adding more vegetarian choices to its menu. If you’re curious about vegetarian options at Cracker Barrel, this guide will break down everything you need to know.
Looking for other food options and substitutions? Check out our Food Options and Substitutions Page for the most up-to-date information.
Understanding the Cracker Barrel Menu
The Cracker Barrel menu is famous for its southern-style comfort food, including fried chicken, country ham, and buttermilk biscuits.
While these dishes may appeal to many, those following vegetarian diets or a vegan lifestyle often face the daunting task of finding suitable menu items.
Fortunately, Cracker Barrel’s menu has evolved to include more plant-based foods, catering to a broader customer base with diverse dietary needs.
Vegetarian Choices for Breakfast
Breakfast is one of the highlights of dining at Cracker Barrel. Their own breakfast menu features classic dishes like the Old Timer’s Breakfast and French Toast.
But what about vegetarian choices? The good news is that there are several vegetarian-friendly options to satisfy your morning cravings.
For a wholesome start to your day, consider the House Salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded cheese topped with a tangy balsamic herb vinaigrette. Pair it with a side of fresh seasonal fruit or fried apples for a sweet touch.
Another top pick is the Veggie Plate, which allows you to customize your breakfast with up to four sides like mashed potatoes, whole kernel corn, sweet baby carrots, and turnip greens.
Cracker Barrel’s allergen guide can help you identify which sides are free of animal products.
One of the newer additions to Cracker Barrel’s breakfast lineup is the Impossible Sausage. This plant-based option caters to vegetarians, vegans, and those exploring new meat frontiers. Pair the Impossible Sausage with sourdough bread, a fresh fruit cup, and a baked potato for a filling and nutritious plant-based option.
Vegetarian Options for Lunch and Dinner
Cracker Barrel’s lunch and dinner menus are famous for hearty, southern-style comfort food. While fried shrimp and fried chicken may be off the table for vegetarians, there are still plenty of lighter options and comforting meals to choose from.
The Country Vegetable Plate is a crowd-pleaser, allowing you to select four sides from a variety of choices. Popular vegetarian sides include green beans, pinto beans, mashed potatoes (without gravy), sweet potato, collard greens, and homestyle fries. For a balanced meal, you can mix and match these sides to suit your taste buds.
Another healthy option is the House Salad with balsamic herb vinaigrette. You can also add fresh seasonal fruit or fresh greens to create a nutritious plant-based option. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider the Macaroni N’ Cheese or a bowl of Pinto Beans, which offer a warm, comforting meal that’s both filling and delicious.
Vegan-Friendly Options
While Cracker Barrel’s menu is more vegetarian-friendly than fully vegan, there are still some vegan items that cater to those following a vegan diet.
Vegan-friendly options include fresh fruit, baked potatoes (without sour cream or butter), and fresh greens. The Impossible Sausage is another standout option for vegans.
To ensure you’re making choices that align with your dietary needs, it’s a good idea to consult Cracker Barrel’s allergen menu or allergen information on their website. This guide will help you identify which dishes are free from animal products and safe for vegan consumption.
New Menu Items and Social Media Buzz
Cracker Barrel’s recent addition of the Impossible Sausage sparked a lively debate on social media platforms like Facebook. Many customers welcomed the new menu option, while others were skeptical of the shift toward plant-based foods. This change reflects the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan-friendly options in the restaurant industry.
The first place to hear about new menu items at Cracker Barrel is often through a Facebook post or social media announcement. These updates keep guests informed and engaged, especially those looking for healthier, plant-based options on the menu.
How Cracker Barrel Caters to Dietary Needs
With more customers prioritizing health reasons and exploring plant-based diets, Cracker Barrel’s move to expand its vegetarian options is a step in the right direction. Whether you’re a lacto-ovo vegetarian, a vegan, or simply seeking healthier options, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
Cracker Barrel’s allergen guide is a valuable resource for those with food allergies or specific dietary needs. It’s a helpful tool that allows guests to filter menu items based on allergens and dietary restrictions. This effort demonstrates Cracker Barrel’s commitment to creating an inclusive dining experience for a diverse group of people.
The Vegetarian Experience at Cracker Barrel
The dining experience at Cracker Barrel isn’t just about the food—it’s about feeling welcomed and cared for. The addition of plant-based options like the Impossible Sausage and the Country Vegetable Plate ensures that guests with vegetarian diets feel included. This shift aligns with the once-great Tennessee company’s mission to provide “good value and great meal experiences” for everyone.
With affordable prices and the option for curbside pickup, vegetarians can enjoy their favorite meals on the go. The Cracker Barrel experience remains as nostalgic and comforting as ever, even with new vegetarian-friendly options.
Final Thoughts
Finding vegetarian options at Cracker Barrel is no longer a daunting task. With choices like the Veggie Plate, House Salad, Impossible Sausage, and fresh seasonal fruit, Cracker Barrel’s menu is evolving to meet the needs of its diverse customer base.
Whether you’re looking for a full meal, a quick breakfast, or a healthy option on the road, Cracker Barrel restaurants have you covered.
If you are looking for healthy recipes to make at home, check out our corn casserole recipe. It has many variations to fit your diet. Or try
The next time you visit Cracker Barrel, take a closer look at the vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available.
From southern-style comfort food to fresh, plant-based options, there’s something to satisfy every taste bud.
Thanks to Cracker Barrel’s allergen menu and commitment to healthy choices, you’re sure to find a dish that fits your dietary needs and preferences.
