Cracker Barrel Poised for Move to Forsyth County

Forsyth County officials say they are excited about the possibility of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Restaurant coming to Cumming.

Cracker Barrel is looking at opening an 8,960-square foot restaurant at the intersection of Georgia 400 and Buford Highway on a site previously occupied by Pappy Red's Barbecue and Mrs. Winners Chicken & Biscuits. Both restaurants have been closed for some time.

Interim Planning Director Tom Brown said Thursday the site plan was submitted April 25. County departments that will be responsible for providing services to Cracker Barrel have reviewed the plan and submitted comments. 

Cracker Barrel will now address those comments then submit the final plan back to the planning department for final approved.

Brown added that while it is not written in stone, ground breaking could occur as early as October and the grand opening as early as April.

James McCoy, President and CEO of, said, "This is the second national retailer that is interested in coming here and you just don't see that around Metro Atlanta right now. They see opportunity here."

County Commissioner Patrick Bell said, "I'm ecstatic about it. I believe they will be a great asset to the community. I'm saddened that former Commissioner (Eddie) Taylor didn't get to see this. It was one of his goals to see Cracker Barrel move to Forsyth County."

Taylor died last December (see story).

Asked what attracted Cracker Barrel to Forsyth County, Jeanne Ludington, Corp. Communications Manager for the Brentwood-based restaurant said, "In general our Real Estate Department looks for growth and vitality when they travel the countryside and the process really begins at that point."

Because the site is already properly zoned, Cracker Barrel will not have to go before the county commission for approval.