Cook Out is a beloved privately-owned American fast-food restaurant chain that has taken the Southeastern United States by storm with its signature char-grilled burgers, classic milkshakes, and Carolina-style barbecue. Founded in 1989 in Greensboro, North Carolina, the brand is known for its affordable pricing, extensive menu, and nostalgic drive-thru-only locations — although newer stores are embracing indoor dining.
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Quick Facts About Cook Out
- Founded: 1989 in Greensboro, North Carolina
- Founder: Morris Reaves
- Headquarters: Thomasville, NC
- CEO: Jeremy Reaves
- Number of Locations: 360+ (as of 2026)
- Employees: 13,000+
- Industry: Quick Service Restaurants
- Website: cookout.com
What Cook Out is Known For
1. Cook Out Trays
Perhaps the most iconic item is the Cook Out Tray, a customizable combo meal that allows customers to choose:
- 1 Entree (hamburger, BBQ sandwich, chicken sandwich, quesadilla, etc.)
- 2 Sides (hushpuppies, onion rings, nuggets, fries, corn dogs, etc.)
- 1 Drink or Milkshake (milkshake for an extra charge)
2. Over 40+ Milkshake Flavors
Cook Out is famous for its hand-spun milkshakes, with unique seasonal and year-round offerings like:
3. Carolina-Style Barbecue
Cook Out pays homage to its roots with North Carolina pulled pork barbecue, served with slaw and hushpuppies.
4. Cheerwine
A cherry-flavored soda native to North Carolina, Cheerwine is available at Cook Out locations and a must-try Southern classic.
Cook Out Locations & Expansion
From a humble beginning in North Carolina, Cook Out has expanded to 11 states as of 2026:
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Georgia
- Tennessee
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Alabama
- Maryland
- NEW: Florida (Pensacola opened July 2026; Tampa coming soon)
Recent openings include:
- Manassas Park, VA (2022)
- Newberry, SC (2024)
- Pensacola, FL (2025)
- Charlotte, NC (2025 expansion)
Sponsorships and NASCAR Partnerships
Cook Out has embraced Southern culture not only through food but also by becoming a major NASCAR sponsor:
- Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway (since 2020)
- Richmond Summer Race (since 2023)
- Martinsville Spring Race (since 2024)
- The Clash & Madhouse Classic at Bowman Gray Stadium (added 2025)
Jeremy Reaves’ son, Max Reaves, races in the ARCA Menards Series, sponsored by Cook Out.
History and Growth Timeline
- 1989: First Cook Out opens in Greensboro, NC
- 2010: First out-of-state location opens in Spartanburg, SC
- 2012-2014: Expands to VA and GA
- 2016-2019: Rapid expansion into MS and AL
- 2022: 326+ restaurants
- 2025: 360+ locations and counting
Careers at Cook Out
Cook Out offers thousands of job opportunities in management, cashier, team member, and corporate roles. With competitive pay and growth potential, it’s a popular employer in the quick-service industry.
Popular Positions:
- Team Member
- Grill Cook
- Restaurant Manager
- General Manager
Average Salaries:
- General Manager: $86,000/year
- Cook: $12.84/hour
- Cashier: $12.99/hour
Apply online or in person. Maryland applicants have a separate PDF application.
FAQs About Cook Out Restaurant
1. Who owns Cook Out?
Morris Reaves is the founder and owner. His son Jeremy Reaves is the CEO.
2. Is Cook Out only in North Carolina?
No, it operates in 11 states across the Southeastern U.S.
3. Does Cook Out have indoor seating?
Some newer locations do. Many still offer drive-thru and walk-up windows only.
4. Does Cook Out serve breakfast?
Not typically. Most locations open at 10:30 AM and focus on lunch/dinner. A breakfast concept, Roo’s Chicken, is being tested.
5. How many milkshake flavors does Cook Out offer?
Over 40! Including seasonal and creative blends.
6. What is in a Cook Out Tray?
One entree, two sides, and a drink. You can upgrade to a milkshake.
7. Can I order Cook Out online?
Cook Out doesn’t have a native app, but you can order via third-party delivery apps.
8. Where can I find nutritional info?
Check their nutrition guide or request a paper copy in-store.
9. Does Cook Out take Apple Pay or Google Pay?
Yes, most locations now accept contactless payments.
10. What are Cook Out’s hours?
Typically open from 10:30 AM to late (2-4 AM). Hours vary by location.
11. Does Cook Out have vegetarian options?
Yes, options include cheese quesadillas, veggie wraps, and sides.
12. Can I get a milkshake with my tray?
Yes! You can substitute your drink for a milkshake (extra charge).
13. What is Cheerwine?
A cherry-flavored soda from NC, exclusive to the Southeast.
14. Is Cook Out expanding?
Yes. 2026 includes expansion into Florida, and more growth is expected.
15. Where is the best Cook Out location?
Many love the original Greensboro location for nostalgia, but newer ones offer seating.
Final Thoughts
Cook Out continues to grow in popularity for offering flame-grilled favorites, signature shakes, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for a late-night meal or a nostalgic tray of burgers and BBQ, Cook Out delivers quality and value every time.
If you haven’t tried it yet, make sure to stop by your local Cook Out and grab a tray – and don’t forget to wash it down with one of their famous shakes!