Cars filled with hungry and tired college students line up at 3 a.m. around an unassuming, square-shaped brick establishment. One might mistake this North Carolina-based fast-food chain for a bar, but Cook Out can be found serving slushy milkshakes and greasy burgers past midnight on most evenings.
Founded in 1989 by Morris Reaves, Cook Out opened its first location in Greensboro, NC. The franchise remained exclusively in NC until 2010, when it opened its first location in South Carolina. 35 years since its founding, Cook Out remains a fan favorite among North Carolinians despite its seemingly basic American grill menu options. What could explain the chain’s seemingly never-ending popularity?
A huge factor in Cook Out’s success is its affordability. Many students struggle with finding steady income, especially during the school year when they are focusing on their academics. This challenge makes Cook Out a highly appealing option to this demographic; the restaurant offers burgers for as low as $3 and hot dogs for $2. It is no wonder that students flock to Cook Out for some cheap eats.
Despite its low prices, Cook Out does not skimp on quality. Unlike other well-known fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King who ship frozen patties to their locations, Cook Out prides itself on maintaining fresh food. The company’s motto is “Always Fresh, Never Frozen,” and it established the Cook Out Meat Commissary in 1999. Workers ground up meat at the commissary and make patties to be shipped to all locations daily.
Using fresh ingredients, Cook Out provides customers with a diverse selection of fast-food options. The chain sells hamburgers, barbeque plates, quesadillas, chicken strips and more. It also offers a variety of sides, including hush puppies, fries and onion rings. Many visitors choose to order the Tray, a combo with one entree, two sides and a beverage for under $10.
Cook Out also provides a variety of beverages to quench consumers’ thirst after a filling meal. Perhaps even more popular than its food items, the chain offers around 40 milkshake flavors. Known as ‘fancy milkshakes,’ these flavors range from banana fudge to peach cobbler. Additionally, customers can combine flavors if they can’t decide on one to order.
With its affordability, diverse menu and fresh ingredients, Cook Out shows no signs of slowing down; the restaurant continues to conquer southern states, expanding rapidly past its humble North Carolina beginnings.
