Cook Out cafe named a ideal late evening quickly food items spot

If you’re looking for a late night bite, you may want to consider a popular local fast food chain that was just named one of the best in the country.

Cook Out, based in North Carolina, made the list of best late night fast food restaurants in the 2023 USA Today Readers’ Choice 10Best contest.

“If during your nocturnal excursions you find yourself in the mood for a rich, creamy milkshake in one of 40 delicious flavors or a chargrilled burger customized with your preferred toppings, you’ll want to find a Cook Out restaurant,” the report says. “With locations that are often open for extended hours, this is a favored late-night option.”

The popular fast food spot opened its first location in Greensboro in 1989 before expanding all over the state and the region with over 250 locations in the U.S.

Whether you want a burger, a corn dog, a milkshake, or even all three as part of the iconic customizable Cook Out Tray combo, the fast food chain has an endless list of entrees, sides and desserts on its menu.

[RELATED: Who needs cake? NC couple serves Cook Out milkshakes to wedding guests instead]

Cook Out wasn’t just named as one of the best spots for a late night bite. The North Carolina-based restaurant that’s open all day for lunch and dinner also made USA Today’s list for best regional fast food chains in the country.

“Founded in North Carolina and with restaurants scattered throughout much of the South, Cook Out is a regional favorite for burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes, and Southern-style barbecue,” the report says.

The annual 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, determined by readers’ votes, include a wide variety of categories for food, travel destinations, things to do and more. You can find the full list of winners and pending winners at 10best.com/awards/travel.

This story was originally published August 1, 2023, 7:10 AM.