Does Cook Out Take Apple Pay in Drive-Thru? Full Guide
Cook Out is a popular fast food place known for tasty burgers and shakes. Many people like to use Apple Pay because it lets them pay with their phone instead of cash or cards. It’s quick, safe and easy to use.
If you often go to the Cook Out drive-thru, you might want to know if Apple Pay works there. In this guide, we will answer that question and show you how to use Apple Pay at the drive-thru to make your order faster and smoother.
What Is Cook Out?
Cook Out is a popular fast food chain in the Southeastern United States. Known for its huge Cook Out trays, delicious char-grilled burgers, real milkshakes and Carolina-style BBQ, it’s a go to spot for affordable and tasty food.
Cook Out is famous for:
- Affordable combo trays
- More than 40 milkshake flavors
- Fast drive-thru service
- Late-night hours (many locations open until 3:00 AM)
Because most Cook Out locations focus on drive-thru and takeout, understanding their payment options is essential for a smooth ordering experience.
Does Cook Out Take Apple Pay at the Drive-Thru?
Sometimes.
Cook Out does not have a universal Apple Pay policy across all locations. Whether or not you can use Apple Pay at the drive-thru depends on the specific Cook Out location.
Here’s what we found:
- Some Cook Out locations accept Apple Pay inside the store but not at the drive-thru.
- Others do not accept Apple Pay at all.
- A few updated locations have contactless payment terminals that may work with Apple Pay, even in the drive-thru.
In general, most Cook Out drive-thrus still use older point-of-sale (POS) systems, which do not support mobile wallets like Apple Pay. That means even if you have your iPhone ready, the cashier might not be able to process your payment at the window.
How to Find Out if Your Local Cookout Accepts Apple Pay
Because Apple Pay availability varies, here are three easy ways to check if your local Cook Out takes Apple Pay at the drive-thru:
- Call the Location Directly
Use Google Maps to find your local CookOut and call them. Ask: Do you accept Apple Pay at the drive-thru? - Check with the Cook Out Cashier
If you’re nearby, stop in and ask the cashier. They can tell you whether Apple Pay is accepted at the window or inside. - Look for the Apple Pay Logo
Some locations display Apple Pay or contactless payment logos on the drive-thru window or near the register.
What Payment Methods Does Cook Out Accept?
Here are the most common payment options accepted at most Cook Out drive-thru locations:
- Cash: Always accepted
- Debit Cards: Most locations accept Visa, Mastercard, etc.
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted (some locations may have card-only drive-thru lanes)
- Gift Cards: Only CookOut-issued gift cards
- Mobile Payments: Rare, but some locations support Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay (usually inside only)
Tips for Paying at Cook Out Drive-Thru
If you’re heading to the drive-thru, here are a few tips to avoid payment issues:
- Bring a Backup Payment Method
Even if you prefer Apple Pay, bring a debit card or cash just in case. - Ask Before Ordering
If you’re not sure whether mobile payments are accepted, ask the cashier at the speaker before you place your order. - Use the Walk-Up Window (if available)
Some Cook Out locations have a walk up window where Apple Pay might be accepted using an indoor terminal.
Why Doesn’t Cook Out Support Apple Pay at All Locations?
Cook Out is known for being a low-cost, no-frills fast food chain. Many locations use older register systems to keep overhead costs low and food prices affordable. Updating all stores with mobile payment terminals may not be a top priority.
Additionally, Cook Out operates many independently owned locations, which means policies differ by store. This is why Apple Pay support is inconsistent across the brand.
Can You Use Apple Pay at Cook Out Drive-Thru?
Yes to at some locations.
No to at many others.
To be safe, do not rely solely on Apple Pay when going to the Cook Out Menu. Always bring a credit/debit card or cash as a backup.
If you’re someone who prefers contactless payment, call ahead to check your local Cook Out’s payment policy. As CookOut continues to grow and update its stores, more locations may begin supporting Apple Pay in the future.
