💳Does Cookout Take American Express (AmEx) ? Everything You Should Know in 2025
Does Cookout Take American Express? 💳🍔 What Smart Diners Always Check First ✅
If you’re heading to Cookout for some tasty BBQ trays or a legendary milkshake and wondering, “Can I pay with my American Express card?” — you’re definitely not alone.
🏁 The Quick Answer
No — most Cookout locations do not accept American Express.
While you might be able to use Visa, MasterCard, and Discover, American Express is generally not supported at Cookout restaurants. It’s not an error or a glitch—it’s a deliberate business decision, and there’s a good reason behind it.
Many customers reach the checkout window and realize they might not be able to use their AmEx, which can be frustrating—especially if it’s your main payment method. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Cookout’s payment policy, why AmEx might not work, and what your best options are.
💸 Why Doesn’t Cookout Accept American Express?
American Express is known for offering premium rewards to cardholders, but it also charges higher fees to merchants for processing payments. Compared to Visa or MasterCard, which charge lower transaction fees, AmEx can cost businesses significantly more per swipe.
For a value-focused restaurant like Cookout—where menu prices are already low—absorbing those higher processing fees may not make financial sense. So instead of raising prices, many restaurants simply opt not to accept AmEx at all.
It’s not a technical limitation. Cookout locations have the capability to accept most major cards. But avoiding higher transaction fees is one way they keep meals affordable.
🛍️ What Payment Methods Are Accepted at Cookout?
While American Express might not work, you still have plenty of convenient alternatives. Here are the most common payment methods accepted at Cookout restaurants across the U.S.:
✅ Visa, MasterCard, and Discover
These cards are widely accepted and processed without any issues. If you carry any of these, you’re good to go.
💵 Cash
Good old-fashioned paper money never fails. All Cookout locations accept cash payments.
📱 Mobile Wallets
Here’s where things get interesting: if you’re an American Express user, you can still pay at Cookout through Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. These mobile payment systems allow you to link your AmEx card to your digital wallet. When you tap your phone at the register or drive-thru terminal, the payment goes through like any other card.
So technically, you can still use your American Express—just not by physically swiping it.
🎁 Cookout Gift Cards
These are also accepted and make a great option if you’re gifting a meal to someone or managing your fast-food budget.
📌 Should You Still Bring Your AmEx?
If you’re an AmEx loyalist, don’t ditch your card—but do bring a backup. Mobile wallets make life easier, but not every location’s payment terminal may support contactless tap-to-pay.
Here’s a smart move:
- Link your AmEx to your phone for mobile payments
- Bring a Visa/MasterCard just in case your tap-to-pay doesn’t work
- Double-check ahead of time if you’re visiting a less tech-savvy location
⚡ Quick Tips Before You Order at Cookout
Here are a few fast tips to make your next trip smooth and stress-free:
- 📞 Call the Cookout specific location if you want to confirm what they accept.
- 🔍 Look for the contactless payment icon near the register or drive-thru.
- 💳 Add your card to your phone wallet beforehand (especially AmEx).
- 💼 Carry a second payment option, just in case.
🚘 What About the Drive-Thru?
Cookout is famous for its fast, no-frills drive-thru experience. If you’re paying through your phone, make sure the terminal supports tap payments at the window. Many newer locations do, but it’s worth checking before assuming.
If you’re in a hurry and unsure, just stick with a Visa or MasterCard for the fastest checkout.
🧾 Recap: Cookout’s Payment Options
| Payment Method | Accepted at Cookout? |
|---|---|
| Visa | ✅ Yes |
| MasterCard | ✅ Yes |
| Discover | ✅ Yes |
| American Express | ❌ Not directly |
| AmEx via Apple/Google Pay | ✅ Yes |
| Cash | ✅ Yes |
| Cookout Gift Cards | ✅ Yes |
🔷 What is American Express?
American Express (often shortened to AmEx) is a financial services company best known for its credit cards, charge cards, and traveler’s checks. Here’s a simple breakdown:
American Express is a U.S.-based company that issues cards used by millions of people to make purchases, earn rewards, and access exclusive benefits. It is both a card issuer and a payment network, unlike Visa or MasterCard, which are only networks.
🏦 How It Works
- When you use an AmEx card, American Express both processes the payment and manages your account.
- Most AmEx cards offer premium perks, like cash back, travel points, airport lounge access, or concierge services.
💳 Popular American Express Cards
- AmEx Gold Card – Ideal for foodies and frequent diners
- AmEx Platinum Card – Packed with luxury travel benefits
- Blue Cash Everyday – Great for families and everyday use
- Business AmEx Cards – Tailored for entrepreneurs and companies
🚫 Why Some Stores Don’t Accept It
- Higher Fees: AmEx charges businesses more than Visa or MasterCard to process payments.
- Because of that, some small businesses and restaurants (like Cookout) choose not to accept it to save on costs.
✅ Where It’s Typically Accepted
- Most large retailers, airlines, hotels, and online stores accept American Express.
- It’s widely used in the U.S., but less commonly accepted internationally compared to Visa and MasterCard.
What is Cook Out?
Cook Out is a popular fast-food restaurant chain in the United States known for its authentic Southern-style BBQ, burgers, and over 40 milkshake flavors. It started in North Carolina in 1989 and has grown to hundreds of locations across the Southeast and South-Central U.S..
🍔 What Makes Cook Out Special?
- Cook Out Trays: Combo meals with your choice of main (like a burger, BBQ sandwich, or chicken strips) and two sides, which can even be things like corn dogs or quesadillas.
- Massive Milkshake Menu: Over 40 thick, creamy shake flavors like banana pudding, peanut butter fudge, and cherry cheesecake.
- Southern BBQ: Pulled pork BBQ sandwiches and plates with slaw and hushpuppies.
- Drive-Thru Focus: Most Cook Out locations don’t have indoor dining—just drive-thru windows and walk-up service.
- Late-Night Hours: Many stores stay open until 2 AM or later, making it a favorite for college students and night owls.
📍 Where Is Cook Out Located?
Cook Out operates in over 15 states, including:
- North Carolina (where it started)
- South Carolina
- Georgia
- Tennessee
- Alabama
- Mississippi
- Virginia
- Kentucky
- West Virginia
- And expanding to more states over time.
💲 Why People Love It
- Big portions, low prices
- Customizable meals
- Fast service and simple menus
- Nostalgic, no-frills vibe
FAQs About Does Cookout Take American Express?
🍔 Final Thoughts
Cookout may not accept American Express outright, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Whether you link your card to a mobile wallet, bring an alternative credit card, or pay cash, you can still enjoy those juicy burgers, BBQ trays, and thick milkshakes without stress.
And now that you know what to expect, you won’t be caught off guard next time you pull up to the window. Whether you’re paying with a card, cash, or a tap of your phone, Cookout’s still got your back.
