Restaurant Manager

Cracker Barrel is a renowned American restaurant and retail chain established in 1969, known for delivering a unique blend of Southern hospitality, home-cooked meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a presence across the United States, Cracker Barrel has grown to become a beloved destination not only for its comforting food but also for creating memorable experiences where guests can reconnect and feel right at home. The company prides itself on its strong roots and community-oriented approach, boasting a team of over 70,000 employees nationwide who uphold the brand's commitment to Always Serving Up More Than a Meal. Cracker Barrel's distinctive combination of restaurant service and retail shopping sets it apart in the casual dining sector, making it a place where the work means more because it is done together with pride and care.

The role of a Restaurant Manager at Cracker Barrel is pivotal in maintaining the high standards and heartfelt hospitality that define the company. As a Restaurant Manager, you are not just overseeing day-to-day operations; you are the leader who ensures that both the front-of-house and back-of-house functions harmonize perfectly to deliver an exceptional guest experience. This position requires a balance of strong operational oversight and people-first leadership skills, where you are directly impacting both employee engagement and customer satisfaction. In this role, you will be responsible for coaching and developing your team, managing inventories, and consistently delivering the quality service and warmth for which Cracker Barrel is known. Working closely with your team, you will set a positive example and inspire them to share the goodness of country hospitality that guests cherish.

Cracker Barrel expects its Restaurant Managers to lead with care, ensuring everyone — from team members to guests — feels valued. This leadership role requires someone who thrives on managing the entire restaurant experience, from kitchen workflow to front-of-house service, all while staying calm and encouraging their team during busy shifts. A successful candidate will have 2-5 years of restaurant management experience, with at least one year within Cracker Barrel, demonstrating familiarity with the company’s operational standards and culture. The position demands readiness to work 50 hours per week, typically five 10-hour shifts, including holidays and weekends as needed, reflecting the commitment to ensure excellence in service at all times. A valid driver’s license is also required for this role, supporting operational needs such as vendor relations or regional tasks.

At Cracker Barrel, the work environment fosters belonging and growth, emphasizing that great work deserves great pay and comprehensive support. Beyond competitive salaries, Restaurant Managers benefit from opportunities for annual merit increases and quarterly bonuses that reward performance. The company offers robust support starting from day one, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage, paid vacation, and access to employee assistance programs to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Furthermore, there are ample opportunities for professional growth and development, with most general manager and district manager openings filled internally. Educational advancement is supported through tuition reimbursement and various professional development initiatives.

Cracker Barrel is committed to creating a culture where its employees feel supported and recognized. From onboarding to ongoing training and employee events, the company fosters a culture of belonging and encourages team members to thrive in their roles. Financial security is also a focus, with a 401(k) plan offering company matching contributions starting at 90 days employment, alongside an employee stock purchase program. Additional perks include a 35% discount on Cracker Barrel food and retail items and exclusive discounts on home goods, travel, cell phones, and more, making the work experience rewarding both professionally and personally.

Joining Cracker Barrel as a Restaurant Manager means becoming part of a warm, inclusive community dedicated to leadership through care and operational excellence. It’s a role where your leadership will shape the moments that guests and team members cherish, continuing Cracker Barrel’s long-standing tradition of serving more than just a meal. If you bring passion for hospitality, strong management skills, and a desire to be part of a team where you can grow and succeed, Cracker Barrel invites you to apply and be part of the good company.