Move over, theme parks - there’s a different kind of magic in the Southeastern U.S., and it smells like fried chicken, corn dogs, and freshly made milkshakes.
For under $10, you can eat like a king, and the experience isn’t just delicious - it’s downright revolutionary.
Meet Cook Out, the fast food chain quietly rewriting the rules of combo meals.
TikToker Ellis Flurry (@ellisflurry) recently dubbed it the 'most innovative restaurant of all time' and honestly, it’s hard to argue. His reasoning being 'what if an entrée could be a side?' That’s exactly what Cook Out does, and it turns the entire fast-food concept on its head. This is not your average burger joint. It’s a playground for anyone who loves options - and lots of them.
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Founded in North Carolina in 1989 by Morris Reaves and now run by his son Jeremy, Cook Out has grown to over 250 locations across 10 Southeastern states, with Florida on the horizon. Forget fancy seating - most spots have two drive-thru lanes and a walk-up window. Efficiency is king here, but the real showstopper is the menu.
Cook Out’s signature trays are basically a choose-your-own-adventure for food lovers. Pick an entrée - burgers, barbecued pork sandwiches, hot dogs, quesadillas, chicken strips, the list goes on. Then add your sides. And we’re not talking small sides. Think chicken wraps, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, hush puppies, onion rings, corn dogs, or piles of fries. You can even double up for two of the same side. Yes, two entire corn dogs on one tray. Dream big.
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And the drinks? Let’s just say this is where the Southern twist comes in. Sure, there are fountain drinks and tea, but why settle when you can upgrade to a float? A Coke or Cheerwine float (that’s a cherry soda made in North Carolina since 1917) with soft serve turns a meal into an experience - and yes, it’s included at no extra cost.
The best part: the trays usually cost between $6 and $8. For comparison, a similar McDonald’s combo in New York City can hit $12–$13 for just a burger and fries. More food, more variety, and more flavor for half the price - it’s hard to beat.
And don’t even think about skipping dessert. With a massive milkshake menu - flavors from vanilla to peanut butter to Oreo - Cook Out turns a fast-food run into a full-on indulgence.
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Cook Out proves that fast food innovation doesn’t need smoke, mirrors, or a Michelin star. Sometimes, it just takes asking one simple question and giving people exactly what they want: freedom, flavor, and a tray piled high with happiness.
Lara Owen