Cook Out is one of the South’s most beloved fast-food chains—known for its massive tray combos, old-school milkshakes, and late-night drive-thru service. But in 2025, the question for many iPhone users is: Does CookOut take Apple Pay? If you’re hoping to pay with your phone instead of fumbling for your wallet, here’s what you need to know.
This guide breaks down whether Cook Out accepts Apple Pay, how to use it, what to do if it’s not accepted at your location, and tips to speed up checkout.
Does Cookout Accept Apple Pay?
The answer is: sometimes, but not everywhere. Cook Out locations are individually owned, which means payment options can vary between stores.
Some locations now accept Apple Pay at the register or drive-thru, while others still use older payment systems that don’t support contactless payments.
What We Know:
- No official confirmation from CookOut corporate about Apple Pay
- Reports show some newer or remodeled locations accept it
- Others only take cash or traditional credit/debit cards
To avoid disappointment, it’s a good idea to check ahead before placing your order.
How to Check if Your Cook Out Accepts Apple Pay
Since there’s no central policy, here are ways you can check:
Use Apple Maps
- Open Apple Maps
- Search for your nearest Cook Out location
- Scroll down to “Useful to Know”
- Look for the Apple Pay logo or “Accepts Apple Pay”
Look for Signs at the Window
Most Cook Out locations that support contactless payments display Apple Pay or tap-to-pay stickers near the drive-thru window or counter.
Ask the Staff
The simplest way? Ask an employee if they accept Apple Pay when you pull up to the drive-thru or walk in.
How to Use Apple Pay at Cook Out
If your local CookOut does accept Apple Pay, here’s how to use it:
- Order your meal like usual—at the drive-thru or counter
- When it’s time to pay, open your Wallet app
- Double-press the side button (iPhone) or tap your Apple Watch
- Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode
- Hold your device near the contactless reader
- Wait for the “Done” confirmation and you’re all set!
Benefits of Using Apple Pay at Cook Out
Using Apple Pay isn’t just cool—it’s faster and safer than swiping or handing over cash.
| Benefit | Description |
| Contactless | No need to touch buttons, cards, or cash |
| Secure | Card details are encrypted and never shared |
| Fast | Transactions complete in seconds |
| Private | Apple doesn’t track what you buy or where you shop |
Perfect for when you’re in a hurry or just don’t want to dig through your wallet.
What to Do If Apple Pay Isn’t Accepted
If your CookOut location doesn’t take Apple Pay, don’t worry—you still have a few options:
Bring a Backup Payment Method
Always carry a credit card, debit card, or some cash—especially if you’re heading to an older location.
Use a CookOut Gift Card
Some locations offer CookOut gift cards that can be used like cash. These usually aren’t reloadable via Apple Pay, but they can still come in handy.
Use Apple Cash Card Details
In rare cases, you might be able to enter your Apple Cash card number manually if the system allows. But this depends entirely on the payment terminal setup.
Does Cookout Accept Apple Pay in Drive-Thru?
Yes—at some locations. If the payment terminal is brought to the window or supports contactless cards, Apple Pay will work the same as it does at the counter.
Just let the employee know you’re using contactless or “Apple Pay,” and hold your phone near the card reader when prompted.
Other Payment Methods Accepted at Cook Out
While it varies, most locations accept:
- Cash
- Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX)
- Debit cards
- Some locations accept Google Pay or Samsung Pay
No online ordering or in-app payment methods are supported at this time.
FAQs
Does CookOut take Apple Pay at all locations?
No. Cook Out locations are independently run, and not all accept Apple Pay. Some do, especially newer or remodeled stores.
Can I use Apple Pay in the drive-thru?
Yes—if that location has a contactless-enabled terminal at the window.
How can I tell if a CookOut accepts Apple Pay?
Use Apple Maps, check for stickers at the window, or ask an employee before ordering.
What if Apple Pay doesn’t work?
Have a backup like a debit or credit card. Not all terminals support Apple Pay.
Does CookOut have a mobile app with payment options?
No, CookOut does not currently offer a mobile app for ordering or paying.