David Deno will lead the restaurant chain following a controversial attempt to modernize its image.
Cracker Barrel is replacing CEO Julie Felss Masino following an ill-fated effort to give the Southern-themed restaurant chain a modern look.
Masino will step down on Aug. 10 and be succeeded by David Deno, the former CEO of Bloomin’ Brands, which owns Outback Steakhouse.
She will remain with Cracker Barrel in an advisory role through Oct. 9 to assist with the transition, the company announced on July 27.
“Cracker Barrel is a truly iconic American brand, defined by its unique combination of warm country hospitality, timeless appeal, and deep connection with guests across generations,” Deno said in a news release.
“I am honored to lead the Cracker Barrel team and look forward to unlocking the full potential of this remarkable brand.”
Deno served as CEO of Bloomin’ Brands from 2019 to 2024 and previously held executive positions at Best Buy and Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell and KFC.
Masino, a former executive at Taco Bell and Starbucks, was named Cracker Barrel’s CEO in July 2023 and took office that November.
She was tasked with attracting new customers and revitalizing a chain that now operates about 660 restaurants in 43 states.
Her strategy included updating the menu and modernizing Cracker Barrel’s antique-filled restaurants.
The company tested brighter walls and more contemporary seating in place of the chain’s familiar dark, rustic interiors.
Those changes drew some criticism, but the most intense backlash followed the unveiling of a simplified logo in August 2025.
The new minimalist design removed the longtime “Old Timer” character seated beside a barrel and displayed only the Cracker Barrel name.
The logo change prompted overwhelmingly negative feedback on social media, including from President Donald Trump, who urged the chain to restore the old design.
“Cracker Barrel should go back to the old logo, admit a mistake based on customer response—the ultimate Poll—and manage the company better than ever before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Aug. 26, 2025.
“They got a Billion Dollars worth of free publicity if they play their cards right. Very tricky to do, but a great opportunity.”
Later that day, the Tennessee-based company announced that it would scrap the new design and restore the old logo.
“We thank our guests for sharing your voices and love for Cracker Barrel,” the company said at the time. “Our new logo is going away and our ‘Old Timer’ will remain.”
By Bill Pan
