Cook Out cooked up new Charlotte spot near an old one. Even workers do a double take
A taco ruse?
Charlotte’s first Taco Roos, a Cook Out spinoff, was set to debut at 9615 N. Tryon St., according to Mecklenburg County permits filed in 2023 and last year. It would sit across from an existing Cook Out in the University neighborhood.
But drive down Tryon, and you’ll find yourself doing a double take.
There are now two Cook Outs.
A taco ruse, indeed.
It’s unclear why the Thomasville‑based fast food joint is opening a Cook Out next to a Cook Out. The burger connoisseur didn’t immediately reply to comment requests.
But the switcheroo seems to be on brand for the seemingly elusive (maybe exclusive?) taco spot.
Cook Out’s taco who?
Cook Out has apparently been testing out new concepts across the state, featuring tacos and fried chicken.
A Roo’s Chicken opened at an existing Cook Out in Raleigh last year.
And Taco Roos debuted in Wilmington back in 2020. But even that debut was dipped in controversy. For months, nearby residents called to see if it would ever open. A parody social media account was created with the introduction, “Taco Roos Tacos & Chicken is going to be Wilmington’s premiere fast food location for chicken and kangaroo tacos. Maybe. We’re 0% associated, 100% parody.”
Some joked that the concept was a “taco ruse.”
But the taco spot did open. Then, it converted into a Cook Out/ Taco Roos hybrid, according to The Seahawk, UNC Wilmington’s student newspaper. Think KFC/Taco Bell combo stores.
So, two Cook Outs?
Cook Out has been expanding in Charlotte and Cabarrus County. Last year, the chain opened an additional three locations.
And maybe the new Cook Out is part of the expansion. Workers, who did not want to be identified, said they weren’t sure of the company’s plans.
They may be moved to the new location, while the existing Cook Out is renovated. Or there may just be two Cook Outs.
The restaurant has owned both buildings at the site since 2006.
It’s unclear when the new Cook Out will open, though it looks ready to go.
For now just know, no, you’re not seeing double.
Cook Out
Location: 9705 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28262
❓ Location: 9615 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28262
Instagram: @cookout
This story was originally published December 11, 2025 at 1:40 PM with the headline "Cook Out cooked up new Charlotte spot near an old one. Even workers do a double take."
