The North Carolina fast food chain, Cook Out, recently opened across from ETSU, and judging from the long line at the drive-thru, students were excited about the opening. And they have good reason to be. Cook Out has a huge of selection of food “cooked outdoors style” in addition to 40 flavors of milkshakes.

Cook Out is not your typical fast food restaurant. There are interesting selections on the menu, such as the cheese dog (hot dog bun with no hot dog and chili, cheese, slaw and onions) and BLTs.

For the burger lover, Cook Out has four different sizes: small, medium, large and huge. They can fix them in different styles, as well, for just a little extra.

For example, you could get a huge (half-pound) burger made “out-west style” (BBQ sauce, bacon, mayo, pickles and onions) for around $3.50.

There is also an extensive choice of side items. You can order hushpuppies, onion rings, a mustard relish hot dog, BLT, corn dog, french fries or a cheese dog to go along with your burger.

If you’re not in the mood for a burger, try the chicken tenders or a quesadilla.

Students will also be pleased with the low prices. I got chicken tenders, french fries, a small drink and a milkshake for around $8. All of the side items are 99 cents, and a large fountain drink is $1.59.

The milkshakes also really stand out. You can choose from various flavors, from classic chocolate to peanut butter banana. The shakes are very thick, so it might take a while to enjoy them. You can also expect friendly and prompt service at Cook Out, despite the large number of people that eat there.

It took less about three minutes to get my food and maybe a minute longer to get my milkshake, which was really impressive considering how busy they are. There is only one drawback at Cook Out, and that would have to be the parking situation.

It is nearly impossible to get in the parking lot because of the drive-thru traffic. It is also very difficult trying to get out, so watch out for that.

Overall, Cook Out is a really awesome place to have near campus. The food is tasty and cheap, and they are open until 3 a.m. on weeknights and 4 a.m. on weekends.

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