When it comes to fast food, the South reigns supreme. As much as other regions tout their beloved fast food joints as the best in the country, animal-style fries just can't compare to anything from the land of the gravy, home of the fried.
One of the places making its mark on Southern cuisine is Cook Out, a 28-year-old chain dedicated to serving "the highest quality food in the least amount of time." Recently thrust into the spotlight by clever marketing and expansion strategies (e.g. giving hungry college kids free food), Cook Out is on its way to becoming a dinnertime staple below the Mason Dixon. But before you make your way to one of these joints, here's what you need to know first.
1. It All Began In Greensboro, North Carolina.
The quick-expanding chain opened up its first location back in 1989. Employees have been chanting the motto "Welcome to Cook Out, may I take your order please?" from the beginning. And since then, 210 more locations have opened all over the South.
2. All Burgers (And Some Chicken) Are Prepared On A Real Grill.
The fresh-not-frozen concept is widespread in the fast food industry. But this chain is so dedicated to providing fresh meat that it has deliveries every morning to ensure that theirs are never more than a day or two old.
3. Check The Company's Twitter For Free Stuff.
Who isn't into free bags filled with their favorite fast food swag? The chain is pretty active on Twitter and Instagram, and if you prove yourself a worthy follower, you could potentially score t-shirts, jerseys, cups, or free food. At the very least, the memes will crack you up.
4. The Chain Offers 40+ Milkshake Flavors.
Not only does the milkshake menu include Southern flavors like chocolate cobbler, peach, and fresh watermelon, customers can mix any of the flavors together to make their own concoction. Oreo+Cappuccino= 😍
5. The Chopped Pork BBQ Will Set You Back 1,000 Calories.
It's well known that barbecue is not diet food, but it's worth knowing just how much of a calorie bomb you're digging into. Cook Out's Chopped Pork BBQ — a platter of meat that comes with coleslaw, fries, and hushpuppies — will contribute to almost half of your recommended daily calorie intake.
6. Fruit? Salad? Forget About It.
While some fast food options have opted to update their menus to match the clean eating trend that's taken the country by storm, Cook Out says to hell with that. The only vegetables offered on this menu are the toppings for your burger.
7. This Place Stays Open Later Than Most.
While other southern staples close way too early to satisfy your midnight hunger, (lookin' at you, Chick fil A), Cook Out stays open late. Like 3 a.m. late. So if you're craving a snack after a night out on the town, Waffle House and McDonald's aren't your only options.
8. There Is A "Huge" Drink Option.
Calling something "supersized" is clearly too low-key for this restaurant. So they have a "huge" option. Because why be subtle when you need to be hydrated? Cook Out has brought back a massive drink size, perfectly portioned for long road trips.
9. Bible Quotes Line Burgers And Milkshakes.
Like many other family-owned Southern restaurants, Cook Out is a chain steeped in religion. So much so, that it reportedly encourages the restaurants to play Christian music over the loud speakers.
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