When you’re dining at Cook Out, the Southern favorite known for its flame-grilled burgers and over-the-top trays, one thing that completes the experience is the drink in your hand. Whether you’re cooling off with fresh brewed sweet tea, indulging in a syrupy Cheerwine, or sticking with classic Coca-Cola, the Cookout drinks menu offers something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down Cookout drink options, prices, calories, and insider tips to help you choose the best drink pairing for your next tray.
View Full Menu: Cookout Menu Price
Why Drinks Matter at Cookout
No meal is complete without a refreshing beverage to wash it down. At Cookout, drinks play a central role in the Southern dining experience. From sweet teas that rival grandma’s recipe to the regional favorite Cheerwine, Cookout beverages are more than just thirst-quenchers — they elevate your entire meal.
Full List of Cookout Drinks with Prices & Calories
| Drink | Size | Price (USD) | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dasani Water | Bottle | $2.99 – $3.99 | 0 kcal |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Sweet) | Large | $1.99 – $2.99 | 90 – 150 kcal |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Sweet) | Huge | $2.49 – $3.49 | 120 – 200 kcal |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Unsweetened) | Large | $1.99 – $2.99 | 0 kcal |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Unsweetened) | Huge | $2.49 – $3.49 | 0 kcal |
| Coca-Cola (Regular) | Medium | $1.99 – $2.99 | 150 – 200 kcal |
| Coca-Cola (Huge) | Huge | $2.49 – $3.49 | 250 – 350 kcal |
| Cheerwine (Regular) | Medium | $1.99 – $2.99 | 150 – 200 kcal |
| Cheerwine (Large) | Large | $2.49 – $3.49 | 200 – 250 kcal |
Which Drink Should You Choose?
Let’s break down your options based on preferences:
Sweet & Southern:
If you’re in the mood for an authentic Southern experience, sweet tea is a must. It’s brewed fresh and loaded with nostalgic flavor.
Fizzy & Classic:
Love the classics? Coca-Cola is a safe, reliable choice with that crisp soda fizz.
Regional Favorite:
Cheerwine is a unique cherry-flavored soda that originated in North Carolina. Sweet, bold, and only found in select Southern spots.
Zero Calories:
If you’re watching calories or just want to hydrate, Dasani bottled water or unsweetened tea are the go-to.
Insider Tips for Ordering Cookout Drinks
- Upgrade with your tray: If you’re ordering a tray, you get a drink included. Upgrade to a huge size or swap for a milkshake for an additional $1 – $1.50.
- Mix flavors: Some locations allow you to mix soda flavors (try Coke + Cheerwine!).
- Add lemon slices: Fresh lemon wedges are sometimes available upon request for tea or water.
- Drive-thru pro tip: When ordering tea, clarify sweet or unsweet—they’ll default to sweet in most locations.
Cookout Drinks Nutritional Facts
| Drink | Calories | Sugar (g) | Caffeine (mg) | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Tea (Huge) | 200 | 50g | ~30mg | Sweet tea lovers |
| Unsweet Tea (Huge) | 0 | 0g | ~30mg | Diet-conscious |
| Coca-Cola (Huge) | 350 | 96g | ~70mg | Soda fans |
| Cheerwine (Large) | 250 | 64g | ~50mg | Regional soda fans |
| Dasani Water | 0 | 0g | 0mg | Hydration, health |
Best Cookout Drink Combos
| Meal | Drink Pairing |
|---|---|
| Cookout Tray with Burger + Fries | Sweet Tea |
| BBQ Sandwich + Hushpuppies | Cheerwine |
| Chicken Wrap + Onion Rings | Coca-Cola |
| Veggie Burger + Cajun Fries | Unsweet Tea |
| Hot Dog + Corn Dog | Large Coke |
What You Won’t Find on the Cookout Drink Menu
Unlike some chains, Cookout keeps it simple. Here’s what you won’t find:
- No energy drinks
- No alcoholic beverages
- No flavored lemonades or craft sodas
- No coffee or iced lattes
FAQs About Cookout Drinks
Does Cookout serve milkshakes as a drink substitute?
Yes! At Cook Out, you can upgrade your tray drink to a milkshake for about $1 extra, making it a popular choice for customers who want to swap soda or tea for one of their 40+ iconic shake flavors.
Is Cheerwine a Coke product?
No. Cheerwine is not a Coca-Cola product. It’s a unique Southern cherry-flavored soda made by the independent Carolina Beverage Corporation based in Salisbury, North Carolina. Cook Out is one of the few chains that regularly stocks it.
Can you get free refills?
Free refills are not typically available at the drive-thru. However, if you’re dining in at one of the limited Cook Out locations with seating, some may allow refills, depending on local policy and staffing.
Is there caffeine in Cookout’s tea?
Yes, both sweet tea and unsweetened tea at Cook Out contain caffeine, as they are brewed from traditional black tea. It’s a good pick-me-up option if you’re looking for a non-carbonated drink with a caffeine kick.
Are the drinks the same at every location?
Most Cook Out locations carry a consistent base menu of soft drinks, sweet tea, and milkshakes, but there can be minor variations in size options or specific soda brands depending on region or supplier availability.
Do they have diet sodas?
Yes, but it depends on the location. Many stores offer Diet Coke, but other options like Coke Zero or Diet Dr Pepper may not always be available. Ask at the speaker or check the menu board to confirm.
Can I order just a drink at Cookout?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to order drinks a la carte without purchasing a full meal or tray. This includes fountain drinks, milkshakes, and bottled water.
Is Cookout’s water filtered?
Cook Out typically serves bottled Dasani Water, which is filtered and purified. This is a good option for health-conscious customers or those avoiding sugary beverages.
Do Cookout drinks come with ice?
Yes, drinks are automatically served with ice, unless you specifically request no ice or light ice. Customization is generally allowed at the speaker during ordering.
What size is the “Huge” drink?
The “Huge” drink is Cook Out’s largest fountain drink option and ranges from 32 to 40 ounces, depending on the store. It’s often selected by those ordering large trays or meals.
Are there seasonal drink options?
Cook Out doesn’t typically rotate seasonal soft drinks. Instead, they focus on seasonal milkshake flavors like Eggnog or Watermelon. Soft drinks and teas remain consistent year-round.
Can I get lemon with my tea?
Yes! Most Cook Out locations offer lemon wedges or slices upon request to accompany your tea. It’s a common customization, especially with their Southern-style sweet tea.
What’s the most popular drink?
Sweet Tea is hands-down the most popular drink at Cook Out, particularly in Southeastern states like North Carolina and Georgia, where it’s considered a staple.
Do they offer any drinks for kids?
Yes. Kids can enjoy small-sized fountain drinks or bottled water. While Cook Out doesn’t have a formal “kids menu,” these beverages are commonly ordered for younger guests.
Is Cookout open late for drinks only?
Yes! Many Cook Out locations are open until 2 AM or 3 AM, and you’re allowed to order just drinks—including milkshakes—through the drive-thru late at night, no food required.
Final Thoughts on Cookout Drinks
Whether you’re craving something sweet, fizzy, or healthy, the Cookout drinks menu keeps it refreshingly simple. While the lineup isn’t massive, it’s intentionally curated to match their hearty food. From the fan-favorite sweet tea to the legendary Cheerwine, there’s a beverage here for everyone.
So the next time you’re in the drive-thru or sitting down with a loaded tray, don’t overlook the drink. It might just be the most underrated part of the Cookout experience.