Pensacola Welcomes Its First Cook Out: A Fast Food Revolution
Excitement is brewing in Pensacola as the city prepares to welcome its first Cook Out fast food restaurant. Located at the bustling intersection of Baldridge and Nine Mile Road, this new addition is set to open its doors as early as July, marking a significant milestone for local food enthusiasts.
Construction Progress and Location
Contractors are currently putting the finishing touches on the new Cook Out, with the chain’s signature signage already being displayed around the site. According to representatives on-site, the restaurant will officially open at 1735 E. Nine Mile Road within the next few weeks, potentially as late as the first week of July.
This location is part of University Town Plaza, a well-established commercial hub that already features popular chains like Chick-fil-A, Smoothie King, and Panda Express. Cook Out will be situated next to Sonic and directly across from other fast-food favorites such as Burger King and Krispy Kreme, making it a prime spot for hungry diners.
A Long-Awaited Arrival
The journey to bring Cook Out to Pensacola has been years in the making. The site previously housed a Regions Bank, which sold the 1.16-acre parcel for $1.84 million in 2021. The Escambia County Development Review Committee (DRC) initially issued a development order for a 1,500-square-foot restaurant with two drive-thru lanes and ample parking in 2022. However, the chain later filed an amended proposal, which took nearly two years to approve.
Despite some delays in obtaining necessary permits from Escambia County Building Services, construction finally began in early 2025, paving the way for this much-anticipated fast-food outlet.
What Makes Cook Out Special?
Founded in Greensboro, North Carolina, in 1989, Cook Out has gained a reputation for its affordable meals and quick service. The chain is particularly famous for its "Cook Out Trays," which offer a combination of two entrees, two sides, and a beverage, all at an unbeatable price. The menu boasts a diverse array of options, including quesadillas, barbecue plates, milkshakes, and Cajun fries.
Cook Out has experienced rapid growth since its inception. Within a decade, it expanded to 10 locations in North Carolina, and by 2008, that number had surged to 50. The first location outside of North Carolina opened in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in 2010, and today, the chain boasts over 300 locations across the southern and eastern United States, including Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Virginia, and Maryland.
For Pensacola residents, the closest Cook Out locations have been in Mobile and Troy, Alabama. With the new restaurant on Nine Mile Road, locals will finally have access to this beloved fast-food option.
The Future of Fast Food in Pensacola
As Cook Out prepares to open, it promises to add a fresh flavor to Pensacola’s fast-food landscape. With its commitment to quality, affordability, and speedy service, the restaurant is poised to become a favorite among residents and visitors alike.
In summary, the arrival of Cook Out in Pensacola is not just about fast food; it’s about community, convenience, and a new dining experience. As the opening date approaches, anticipation continues to build, and soon, the aroma of burgers and shakes will fill the air at University Town Plaza.