When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Cook Out
Why Cook Out is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cook Out is a renowned American fast-food chain that has become a beloved spot for friends and families to gather, primarily throughout the Southeastern United States. Founded in 1989 in Greensboro, North Carolina, by Morris Reaves, Cook Out combines the casual convenience of drive-thru and walk-up service with a menu that emphasizes fresh, never-frozen burgers, North Carolina-style pork barbecue, and extensive milkshake options. The standard format offers two drive-thru lanes and a walk-up window, catering to efficient service, though some newer locations also provide indoor seating and counter service enhancing the dining experience.
What sets Cook Out apart as a great meeting place is its blend of quality, affordability, and Southern charm. Guests often appreciate the variety of menu items, including chicken sandwiches, quesadillas, wraps, and the signature Carolina-style barbecue complemented by classic sides like hushpuppies and fries. The atmosphere, centered around fast but fresh food, invites casual gatherings and quick meals with friends. Additionally, the broad range of unique sauces available for dipping and the highly praised hand-spun milkshakes add to the enjoyable and shareable dining experience, making Cook Out more than just a fast-food joint but a taste of Southern culture and hospitality.
Here's what people think of Cook Out
As of recent, Cook Out holds a 4.1-star rating based on 1958 reviews.
Customer reviews of Cook Out generally highlight a strong satisfaction with the menu quality, especially praising the authentic Southern barbecue and the freshness of its ingredients. Many reviewers emphasize the pulled pork's tenderness and seasoning, the creamy homemade coleslaw, and the hushpuppies as standout items. The variety of dipping sauces and the milkshakes also receive consistent commendations as true highlights that enrich the overall meal.
Positive reviews particularly mention the value for money, noting Cook Out as an excellent option for budget-friendly meals without sacrificing taste or portion size. The friendly customer service and clean, family-friendly environment are often included in these favorable comments, positioning Cook Out as a comfortable place to enjoy a casual outing with friends or family.
Negative reviews sometimes note the limited indoor seating at many locations, which can be inconvenient in poor weather, and occasional inconsistencies in service speed or order accuracy. A few customers also mention the fast-food style limits some might expect like noise or seating comfort. However, these critiques tend to be outweighed by the positive experiences related to food quality and atmosphere.
Overall, the reviews reflect that Cook Out maintains a strong reputation for delivering fresh, flavorful Southern comfort food quickly and affordably, making it a dependable choice for fast-food enthusiasts and Southern cuisine lovers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Danny Bell (DrDan)
Our family loves cookout. Our favorite is the milkshakes. Most of my family members have their favorite and always get that one! Me? I tried to go through the entire list! They are all way full of whatever you have in in it chocolate or cookies or fruits or whatever. The food is great too.The cookout tray is my favorite and I see it as great value for the money. It is well worth driving through to get something. There’s not really much of a place to eat there maybe one table, but it depends on which when you visit.
Darius Taylor
It’s been going down hill but this just did it for me. It’s blatant disregard & considering I just bought a pack of chicken for $3, I’ll just cook a full meal at 1 AM next time. Also, the chicken tenders are old! The fries were good though
Chris Dewey
Asked for a big double tray with everything except mayonnaise, double cajun fries, a huge Cheerwine, and 2 hot dogs with mustard, ketchup, chili, and onions. I received a single burger with lettuce, pickles, onion, cheese, double cajun fries, and a huge Cheerwine. One hot dog had ketchup, mayonnaise, and onion...the other had chili, lettuce, and MORE mayonnaise?! You've gotta figure this out. That's just absurd.
Barbara Gehl
Took 15 minutes to order. Had to repeat myself more than 10 times! We started to record it on our phone because there was definitely something wrong with the employee. When we finally got up to the window, the employee looked to be on something or having a medical issue. Slurred speech, spacing out. Just looking at the counter, not talking, nothing for several minutes. We got her attention and she temporarily snapped out of it. She tried making an oreo milkshake but sent the cookies sliding across the counter. She scooped them up with her hand and threw them in the cup and put ice cream on it and called it a day. I wanted to check our food order before we left and she asked us to leave and go check it somewhere else. I said no ma'am, Because I can already see it's wrong. I told her what was missing and she said just to give all of it back to her. Why do i need to give you the food back? Just give me the missing food? She said it don't work that way. I told her, well I don't want you touching the food that's in the tray now, so how about you just give me the missing food. I was showing her the tray, but I didn't want to hand it to her. No gloves on and she just using her hands to grab food! Disgusting. I tell everyone not to go here. This woman is unhygienic and clearly can't do her job.
Caleb Cardin
Food was ready quickly and it was early dinner time on a Saturday so it wasn't super busy yet. Got through in minutes. Always a great place to satisfy that burger and milkshake craving.
How to reach Cook Out
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Why Cook Out may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cook Out with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends for an enjoyable and satisfying meal, Cook Out stands out as an exceptional destination. Founded in 1989 in Greensboro, North Carolina, Cook Out has grown steadily into a beloved fast-food chain boasting over 300 locations across multiple southern states. With a solid 4.1 rating from nearly 2,000 reviewers, it has proven its appeal for groups looking for a casual, fun, and delicious dining experience. One of the biggest draws to Cook Out for meetups is its iconic menu—fresh, never-frozen burgers, North Carolina-style pork barbecue, and an unbeatable selection of milkshakes. These menu staples make it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. The restaurant’s unique setup with double drive-thru lanes and walk-up service allows for quick ordering, ideal for groups on the go, while newer locations also offer quaint indoor dining rooms. The affordability, generous portions, and variety ensure everyone in your group finds something to enjoy without breaking the bank. Beyond food, Cook Out's nostalgic Southern charm combined with a laid-back atmosphere creates an inviting backdrop for socializing and making memories with friends or family. It's more than just a burger joint; it’s a place to connect, celebrate, and indulge together.
What activities can you enjoy at Cook Out?
Cook Out offers more than just great food; it is a hub for simple and satisfying group activities that enhance your gathering experience. While primarily a fast-food restaurant, Cook Out’s appeal for meetups lies in its ease of ordering, wide menu variety, and social dining experience. For starters, groups can enjoy the shared culinary adventure of sampling Cook Out’s famous milkshakes—offered in over 40 flavors including classic options like chocolate and vanilla along with unique varieties such as peanut butter and banana. Trying several flavors together turns into a fun, playful tasting event for your group. Another activity is the joy of customizing orders. Cook Out’s menu allows each person to personalize their meal with its vast burger options, loaded trays, and signature sides such as hush puppies and Cajun fries, turning your meal into a creative food exploration. Additionally, many Cook Out locations have a casual outdoor setting or nearby parking spaces where groups can socialize after ordering, including tailgate-style meetups where guests bond over food and music. The fast service means less waiting, so your group can focus on spending quality time rather than standing in line. Whether it's catching up, celebrating an event, or just unwinding, Cook Out supports laid-back group interactions centered around great Southern cuisine.
Why is Cook Out perfect for a group meetup?
Cook Out is uniquely suited for group meetups because it combines excellent food, efficient service, and an accommodating environment that fosters pleasant socializing. Firstly, the extensive menu caters to varied tastes making it easy to satisfy everyone—from lovers of juicy burgers and BBQ to fans of crispy chicken sandwiches or vegetarian options. This diversity reduces the hassle of trying to find a place where everyone will enjoy the food alike. Secondly, the restaurant's popular drive-thru model with two lanes and walk-up windows ensures that groups ordering multiple meals aren't held up by slow service, allowing the gathering to proceed smoothly. This is especially beneficial for large groups or families who value convenience and speed. Thirdly, many locations have incorporated indoor seating in addition to the classic walk-up format, providing a welcoming spot to sit down, relax, and enjoy your food together. This flexibility means Cook Out can accommodate both quick stop-ins or longer hangouts. Furthermore, Cook Out’s reputation for affordable prices is a boon for groups mindful of budget—making it easy to feed several people without steep costs. Lastly, the brand’s Southern roots lend a distinctive cultural vibe that makes meetups feel warm and homey, turning a meal into a shared experience full of flavor and friendly atmosphere.
What makes the food experience at Cook Out so special?
Cook Out’s food experience is distinguished by its commitment to quality, freshness, and authentic Southern flavors that appeal to a wide audience craving comfort food. The foundation of its menu revolves around fresh, never-frozen beef burgers that are grilled to order, delivering a juicy, flavorful bite every time. This emphasis on freshness sets Cook Out apart from many other fast-food chains that rely on frozen patties. Beyond burgers, Cook Out is especially famous for its North Carolina-style pork barbecue, a regional specialty that brings a smoky, tangy depth to the menu and offers a taste of Southern tradition. The menu also includes an array of satisfying sides such as crispy hush puppies, fried mozzarella sticks, and golden Cajun fries, which complement the main courses beautifully. The wide variety of milkshakes is a highlight for many patrons; with dozens of flavors, the milkshakes themselves become an event, perfect for sharing and sampling among friends. Moreover, Cook Out continues to innovate its offerings to stay fresh and exciting while keeping faithful to its roots, ensuring every visit is enjoyable. This attention to detail in food preparation and thoughtful menu design make for memorable meals that keep customers coming back.
How does Cook Out’s atmosphere enhance group gatherings?
The atmosphere at Cook Out plays a vital role in making group gatherings enjoyable by fostering a casual, friendly environment where people feel comfortable and relaxed. Most Cook Out locations feature a distinctive format with two drive-thru lanes and a walk-up window, encouraging quick, easy service that doesn’t interfere with social time. This setup works especially well for groups who want to order and then settle into an informal spot nearby to eat and chat. Many newer Cook Out sites have expanded their layout to include indoor dining areas, which provide a cozy, air-conditioned setting for sit-down meals, perfect for family reunions or friend meetups during hot summers or inclement weather. The brand’s Southern heritage is subtly conveyed through décor and the menu, offering a cultural warmth that resonates with patrons and adds to the communal feel. Outside of the restaurant, ample parking and open spaces give groups room to gather, picnic, or tailgate, turning a simple fast-food stop into a mini-event. This welcoming environment encourages customers to linger, converse, and enjoy each other’s company beyond just grabbing food, emphasizing Cook Out’s role as a social hub.
What should you expect from the customer service at Cook Out?
Expect friendly, efficient, and consistent service every time you visit Cook Out, tailored to fast-paced but attentive customer care that suits group gatherings perfectly. Since Cook Out’s business model relies heavily on drive-thru and walk-up windows, speed and accuracy in order fulfillment are paramount. Customers can expect staff who are well-trained to handle multiple orders quickly, which is crucial when feeding groups of friends or families who want their food promptly. Despite the fast-food format, the staff often exhibit a welcoming attitude, helping guests with menu questions or customization preferences to ensure everyone leaves satisfied. With the inclusion of some indoor dining options, some locations also offer counter-service staff who provide a more traditional restaurant interaction while maintaining the brand’s relaxed vibe. Additionally, Cook Out’s acceptance of credit and debit cards, introduced years ago, makes payment smooth and convenient for groups. Overall, the customer experience is designed to be hassle-free, friendly, and efficient, making organizing group meetups at Cook Out both practical and pleasant.
How does Cook Out accommodate different dietary preferences in groups?
Cook Out is surprisingly inclusive when it comes to accommodating varied dietary preferences within a group, making it easier for everyone to find something appealing. Although its core menu centers on burgers and barbecue—generally meat-focused—the restaurant also offers some vegetarian options and sides suitable for guests who avoid meat or have lighter eating preferences. For instance, they provide grilled cheese sandwiches and a variety of side items such as slaw, hush puppies, and fries which are great vegetarian choices. The broad milkshake selection is dairy-based but extensive, appealing to those with a sweet tooth or craving a cold treat. Cook Out also allows customers to customize their orders by removing certain ingredients or choosing different buns to suit allergies or preferences. While the menu may be more traditional Southern fast-food oriented, the variety ensures that groups with mixed diets can still enjoy a shared meal comfortably. For those wanting to keep it simple or for kids, there are classic options as well, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for diverse groups.
Why is Cook Out’s pricing ideal for meetups with groups?
Cook Out’s pricing structure is notably affordable, making it an ideal choice for groups seeking great food without hefty bills. Unlike many fast-food chains that may add up to expensive totals for multiple people, Cook Out’s menu is designed to offer substantial portions and a variety of choices at reasonable prices. Burgers, loaded trays, and combos come at budget-friendly rates that allow everyone to order to their liking without straining the wallet. The large portion sizes also mean sharing is easy, enabling groups to sample multiple items while controlling expenses. This affordability extends to their famously large milkshakes—an indulgence that doesn’t come at a premium, inviting groups to enjoy special treat moments together. For families or large friend circles, these pocket-friendly prices remove one common dining barrier, keeping meetups focused on fun and connection rather than cost concerns. This balance of value and quality contributes strongly to why Cook Out is loved as a communal dining spot.
How is Cook Out rooted in Southern culture and tradition?
Cook Out is deeply rooted in Southern food culture, which is a significant factor in its popularity and charm. Its inception in Greensboro, North Carolina, and expansion across Southeastern states means the brand draws heavily on regional culinary traditions. The use of North Carolina-style pork barbecue exemplifies this connection, bringing authentic local flavors to every plate. The menu also reflects classic Southern comfort foods like hush puppies and thick, creamy milkshakes, all staples in Southern fast food and diners. The founder Morris Reaves’ background in Southern fast food through owning Wendy’s franchises and the emphasis on fresh, made-to-order items align well with Southern values of quality and hospitality. Moreover, the nostalgic feel of the original drive-thru and walk-up-only format harks back to the simplicity of earlier Southern dining experiences, appealing to customers looking for genuine, unpretentious food. This strong cultural identity makes Cook Out more than a fast-food chain—it becomes a cultural gathering point where people can enjoy traditional tastes in a modern setting.
What upcoming expansions or changes should groups look forward to at Cook Out?
Cook Out continues to grow and innovate, with multiple new locations opening and plans for further expansion, increasing its accessibility for groups in more regions. Since its first out-of-state opening in 2010, the chain has steadily expanded into ten states, with recent launches including new restaurants in Florida in 2025 and continued growth in established markets like North Carolina and Virginia. This ongoing geographic expansion means more friends and families will have convenient access to Cook Out for their meetups. Additionally, newer locations often feature enhanced indoor dining options beyond the classic drive-thru and walk-up service, providing more comfortable and versatile spaces for group gatherings. Cook Out also keeps refreshing its menu to introduce new flavors alongside traditional favorites, so groups can expect exciting food experiences in the future. These developments reflect Cook Out’s commitment to maintaining its Southern fast-food heritage while adapting to customer needs and preferences, promising an even better dining environment for meetups to come. Group organizers can look forward to more choices, better facilities, and continued affordability as Cook Out evolves.
What unique features distinguish Cook Out from other fast-food chains?
Several unique features distinguish Cook Out from the many fast-food establishments competing for customers’ attention, giving it an edge as a gathering spot. One standout aspect is its dual drive-thru lanes with an adjacent walk-up window which optimize speed and capacity, essential for groups ordering multiple varied meals. This contrasts with traditional single-lane drive-thrus and reduces wait times significantly. Another defining characteristic is Cook Out’s extensive milkshake menu, with over 40 flavors, creating a signature treat that few fast-food chains match in variety and quality. The focus on fresh, never-frozen beef cooked to order is a hallmark of quality that stands apart in fast-food burger offerings. Additionally, the strong Southern regional identity reflected throughout the menu and restaurant style gives Cook Out a distinctive spirit and cultural cachet. These combined elements produce a fast-food experience that feels fresh, authentic, and community-oriented, making it ideal for friends and family to rally around.
How does Cook Out’s location and accessibility make it group-friendly?
Cook Out’s strategic locations across the Southeastern United States and its easily accessible format make it particularly group-friendly. With over 300 restaurants primarily situated in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Maryland, Mississippi, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida, Cook Out is rarely far from populated areas where groups plan gatherings. Most locations are designed with convenience in mind, offering ample parking and quick access from major roads, which simplifies arriving and leaving for groups traveling together. The dual drive-thru lanes and walk-up windows further boost accessibility by allowing simultaneous multiple orders, accommodating larger parties smoothly. Some newer outlets with indoor seating enhance accessibility for those who may prefer a sit-down meal rather than eating in cars or outside. This network of convenient, well-planned stores across numerous states reflects Cook Out’s goal to be a reliable and easy option for group meetups in the South.
What do customer reviews say about hosting group meetups at Cook Out?
Customers consistently highlight Cook Out as a great venue for group meetups due to its combination of tasty, affordable food and efficient service. Reviewers praise the friendly staff and the short wait times, especially appreciating the capacity of the double drive-thru lanes when ordering for families or larger friend groups. Many comment positively on the large portion sizes and variety of menu choices which make it easy to please different tastes. The extensive milkshake selection is often cited as a favorite treat to share among friends during visits. Some reviews also note the newer locations’ indoor seating as a welcome upgrade enhancing the ability to sit and enjoy meals together comfortably. While a few reviews mention limited seating in older locations, the overall sentiment acknowledges Cook Out’s strengths as a convenient, fun, and tasty stop for groups looking for a no-fuss meeting spot. The steady 4.1-star rating from nearly two thousand reviews reflects a generally strong customer sentiment supporting Cook Out as a top choice for group dining occasions.