Cracker Barrel breaks ground in Rocklin

A distinct Southern charm and home cooking will soon find its way to Rocklin, as the ever popular Cracker Barrel is gearing toward opening its fifth California restaurant later this year. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. announced it broke ground at its Sierra College Rocklin site on Monday and is projecting the restaurant to open sometime in November. Breanna Straessle, a Cracker Barrel spokeswoman, said Rocklin met proprietary qualifications and stipulations set forth under the company's growth strategy. "Our goal is always to choose locations that we think are vibrant communities poised for growth and Rocklin is a great location for us," Straessle said. "We're excited to have the opportunity to serve Rocklin locals, as well as those traveling along Interstate 80 with our high quality, country cooking with a retail store that offers unique gifts for people of all ages." In August 2017, the Rocklin Planning Commission approved the Rocklin Station project, which included the upcoming Cracker Barrel, a Les Schwab Tires, Chick-fil-A, Habit Burger and a Del Taco. The roughly seven-acre parcel of land where Rocklin Station will be located is at the intersection of Sierra College Boulevard and the I-80 off-ramp. City of Rocklin spokesman Michael Young said Rocklin Station is set to bolster existing businesses located along Sierra College Boulevard, which he said have played a major role in recapturing sales tax revenue that had been leaking to surrounding areas. "Rocklin residents have expressed excitement about the Cracker Barrel project since it was approved. It should provide another great dining option locally," Young said. "The Rocklin Station project as a whole will be a valued addition to the retail area currently anchored by the Crossings and Commons centers." According to the company's press release, the Rocklin Cracker Barrel will hire more than 175 full-time and part-time employees. Along with increased economic activity and hiring, Straessle said the company puts forward philanthropic efforts in the community where stores are located. While the company has yet to establish a local community outreach plan, Straessle said one would be available by the time the store opens. The restaurant will open roughly a year after the Sacramento-area Cracker Barrel location opened in August near the Arden-Arcade area. The roughly 10,000 square foot building, which includes a nostalgic Southern style porch, will be at 4660 Sierra College Blvd. in Rocklin.