Time for a Cook-Out

Although the focus of this blog is in general dealing with a variety of home grown and home cooked authentic local foods, the grand opening of a new restaurant on the fast food strip is causing quite a stir in the student community.

The recent expansion of North Carolina chain fast food restaurant 'Cook Out' into Clemson has taken the spot light off all other cuisine. This new establishment is experiencing an exciting amount of buzz that has put it on the fast food track to the top.

Among many of the new additions to the Clemson menu that's helping to fuel the fuss is the fact that the food is relatively cheap, very timely service, and features two separate drive through lanes.

Cook out started as a family owned, and privately held fast food joint in North Carolina. In fact, until the opening of the Clemson store, cook out operated only in the state of North Carolina. Founded in 1989 by Morris Reaves, he and his son, Jeremy Reaves (current CEO), the key players in this family business are looking to make Cook Out a household, friendly name.

The company's marketing plan and consumer orientation give a very down home feel that is embedded in the roots of its southern Christian origins. Food and drink packaging feature a variety of phrases that embelish not only pro-religious statements (John 3:16) but also draws on a patriotic appeal (THANK YOU GOD FOR AMERICA).

Having eaten there myself for the first time this past Thursday I can say that I was very pleased with the overall experience. I favor the flavor of home cooked food and Cook-out does its best to accommodate. The menu is diverse and full of customizable options that will remind anyone of a backyard BBQ.

Although its technically not locally owned, I give the establishment two thumbs up for service and quality. I'm always game for a Cook-Out.