• by Teresa Buyikian , Yesterday

Nearly a year after its ill-fated logo rebranding debacle, Cracker Barrel has finally hired a new CEO. 

Restaurant veteran David Deno assumes the role beginning Aug. 10, replacing Julie Masino, who will remain in an “advisory capacity” until Oct. 9. 

“[Deno] brings decades of experience across the restaurant and retail industries, with a strong track record of leading businesses through growth and a demonstrated commitment to operational excellence, guest experience and team member engagement,” said Carl Berquist, independent chairman of the Cracker Barrel board. “We are confident David is the right leader to continue building on the Cracker Barrel legacy, drive further positive momentum operationally and financially, and create sustainable value for our shareholders.”

Deno joins Cracker Barrel after serving as CEO of Bloomin' Brands from 2019 to 2024.

Before being named CEO he worked as Bloomin’s executive vice president and CFO from 2012 to 2019.

Prior to Bloomin’ Deno spent time in retail at Best Buy, where he served as president of Asia and CFO for the international division.

Earlier in his career he spent time as CFO and COO of Yum! Brands and as CFO of Pizza Hut (before its acquisition by Yum!). 

The Cracker Barrel CEO transition follows the brand’s failed rebrand last August, when it removed the illustrated “Uncle Herschel” from the logo and redesigned its dining rooms with a more modern aesthetic.

Following intense public backlash, the brand quickly abandoned the rebrand, reverting back to its original logo and suspending restaurant remodels.