Northern California getting 2nd Cracker Barrel restaurant

Vacationers and skiers needing a hearty breakfast or platter of country-fried steak while on the road will have a new option starting late this year.

The Cracker Barrel, which bills itself as America's "old country store," broke ground Monday on its second Northern California restaurant.

The location, in the upscale Placer County city of Rocklin, may seen an unusual choice until you see that 4660 Sierra College Blvd. is right off Interstate 80, making it a convenient stop for the tens of thousands of travelers driving past here every year on their way to Tahoe, Reno and beyond.

This 10,000-square-foot building — that includes the chain's iconic front porch with its rocking chairs — will have seating for 180 customers. A November opening is forecast, with the restaurant hiring 175-plus full-time and part-time employees.

NorCal's first Cracker Barrel opened last August in Sacramento. In the southern half of the state, there are Cracker Barrels in Victorville and Santa Maria, and a Rialto opening is scheduled for next month.

"No immediate plans for the Bay Area right now, but we’re also exploring possible sites," a company spokeswoman said.

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