Ash S.
Yelp
Title: Horrific Experience at Cracker Barrel - Prejudice, Poor Service, and Complete Disregard
I recently visited Cracker Barrel with my family, hoping for a warm, welcoming meal together. Instead, we were met with one of the most appalling dining experiences I've ever had.
We checked in online prior to arriving, where it listed a 10-minute wait. Upon arrival at 11:30 am, we were told we were third in line and it would be about a 20-minute wait. Reasonable enough, we thought. But as the minutes passed -- 20, 30, then 45 minutes -- it became clear that something was amiss.
When I approached the counter to ask for an update, I was met with a dismissive response: "We're just clearing off this table, and you'll be seated shortly." We waited patiently. Moments later, we watched that very table -- the one we were supposedly waiting for -- get given to another party. Not just that, but we watched four more parties get seated ahead of us.
I approached the hostess again, and this time she called the manager. When I explained the situation, the manager's response was a nonchalant, "Oh, sorry, we didn't communicate that." I asked, "Communicate what? That you weren't going to seat us at all?" She had no response, only silence and indifference.
It felt deliberate. As I watched more and more parties walk in and be seated while my family and I were left waiting, it became clear that we were being ignored -- and for what reason? I can't help but feel that some form of prejudice was at play. Otherwise, how do you justify ignoring a party for over 45 minutes while accommodating 12 others?
When we were finally seated, I had some hope that the worst was behind us. I was wrong. Our server brought drinks for everyone at the table -- except me. I politely mentioned it, and he assured me he would bring it shortly. He didn't. I had to ask not once but multiple times before I was finally brought a drink. It was as if I was invisible to them. It took over an hour for them to bring our food. It arrived cold as well.
This experience was beyond frustrating. The blatant disregard, the dismissiveness, and the lack of any sincere apology from the staff or management were all unacceptable. I have never felt so disrespected at a restaurant.
Cracker Barrel has built a reputation on "Southern hospitality," but this experience was the exact opposite. I can confidently say I will never dine at this establishment again. If you value being treated with dignity and respect, do yourself a favor and take your business elsewhere.