Cook Out — Restaurant in Knoxville

I was excited to try Cook-Out when it opened here in the spring! The first couple of times I went I was impressed by the good taste and decent price. But, it was a nightmare getting in and out of the parking lot - the drive-thru was backed up, not enough parking spaces, etc. Also, you had to wait for someone to leave to get a table inside. I thought it was just because the restaurant was new.

Well, I went back on Sunday after church. There were spots in the parking lot, the drive-thru wasn't backed up...figured we were good to go. We walked in to no wait at the cashier although there were quite a few people waiting for their orders.

We have 5 people in our family so ordered five meals naturally. There was only one table open in the entire restaurant, and I noticed most people sitting with just a drink, waiting for their orders. The counter was super crowded from people waiting for their orders.

It took about 35 minutes for our orders to all come up, and they called out our number probably 5 times while we were there. I was done with my food by the time my fiance and his daughter's food was even done. People who were there before us (in particular a party of 2) did not even get their orders until after we were all done eating.

The disorganization is ridiculous. They forgot a part of our order and even though I was standing at the counter never told us when it came to the counter b/c some employee just dropped the bag on the counter and went to the back. This was done multiple times and then one employee would happen to notice and start calling numbers out.

I did notice the drive-thru was not backed up, so I'm not sure if they are just concentrating on getting the drive-thru orders done and ignoring the eat-in patrons, but it was beyond ridiculous. Not one employee apologized and they all looked frenzied and unhappy. Something definitely needs to change - more employees maybe? I never saw anyone come through to wipe down tables during the 45 minutes we were there - the drink area was a mess, obviously not kept up on - we won't be...

My wife and I attended late last night. We were traveling through after having driven 850 miles, and as it was 1030PM, we were left with little option.

We generally steer clear of "fast-food" joints, but since it was essentially this place (Cook Out) on Emory Rd, or McDonald's just down the street, having never been to a "Cook Out", we stopped in.

When we entered the parking lot AT 10:30PM, it was PACKED with cars. There were young men and women running around from what we understand was a local sports event having recently concluded.

We were exhausted from 12 hours and 30 minutes of driving, so we decided to go to the drive-thru.

My first thought upon seeing the Menu Board, WAS "these prices resemble those seen in the late 80s and early 90s".

The selection was EXTENSIVE, and the combinations were plentiful.

We got to the "speaker" which was absolutely incomprehensible, between the feedback and the static. We ATTEMPTED to order and were quoted a price of around $19 for everything.

My wife ordered a Cajun Chicken Sandwich and Onion rings, with a Sweet Tea cut with water, to reduce sweetness.

I ordered a Sierra Mist (Sprite) and 2 Giant burgers (can't recall the name of them, "Big Double" maybe?) which were $2.99 each. (Cheaper than a Whopper or a Big Mac)

I got to choose my toppings (Mayo, Cheese, Lettuce and Onion), and I also had ordered Onion rings.

The young man cashing at the window was asked by us to "clarify the order back to me" (**before we paid) because the speaker outside sucked something awful, and because the price seemed FAR too low, given our order.

2 Burgers 1 Chicken Sandwich 2 Large Onion rings 2 Large drinks

He recalled the order PERFECTLY and assured the price was correct. He was courteous, professional, and accurate. The food was served quickly, neatly and hot and fresh.

We would ABSOLUTELY return to Cook Out on Emory Road again. Thank you for a great experience.

-Two...

Cook Out is a hidden gem that truly captures the essence of Southern hospitality and flavor. From the moment you step up to the window, you're greeted with a menu that offers an impressive variety of options, all at unbeatable prices. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy burger, a mouthwatering barbecue sandwich, or one of their famous milkshakes, Cook Out has something for everyone.

The food quality is exceptional, with fresh ingredients and generous portions that leave you completely satisfied. The burgers are cooked to perfection, full of flavor, and always served hot. Their BBQ is smoky and tender, rivaling even some of the best BBQ joints around. And let's not forget the hushpuppies and fries—they're the perfect sides to round out any meal.

One of the standout features of Cook Out is their milkshakes. With over 40 flavors to choose from, each one is thick, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you stick with a classic like chocolate or venture out with something like peanut butter fudge, you won’t be disappointed.

What really sets Cook Out apart, though, is the atmosphere. It's casual, laid-back, and perfect for families, late-night runs, or grabbing a quick bite with friends. Despite the affordable prices, the quality of the food never falters. Cook Out is a place where you get more than what you pay for—a true testament to their commitment to delivering great food and great value.

Overall, Cook Out is more than just a fast-food restaurant; it's a staple of Southern comfort food that never fails to deliver on taste, quality, and satisfaction. If you haven't tried it yet, you're missing out on one of the best dining...