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Birmingham's Cook Out arrived in January 2021, after eight other Alabama stores, from Tuscaloosa in 2016 to Montgomery in January 2019. The restaurant at 281 Lakeshore Parkway, near the Homewood line, has 101 Yelp reviews at 2.7 stars and a food score of 3.9 on Restaurantji. The city's 4% municipal sales tax makes a Regular Tray $8.13.
- Jan. 2021
- Birmingham's Cook Out opens
- 10%
- Tax on a meal
- 3.9
- Food score on Restaurantji
- 2.7
- Yelp rating
Per Wikipedia's company history
4% state, 2% county, 4% city
Service 3.5, atmosphere 3.5
101 reviews, August 2026
Cook Out Birmingham
Open- Address
- 281 Lakeshore Pkwy., Birmingham, AL 35209
- Opened
- January 2021 (Wikipedia)
- Hours
- 10:30 AM to 3 AM Monday to Thursday; 4 AM Friday and Saturday (Yelp, Restaurantji)
- Drive-thru
- Yes
How do Birmingham's ratings read?
| Site | Rating | Reviews | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wanderlog | 3.9 | 1,836 | Source of the score not named |
| Restaurantji | 3.4 | 296 | Food 3.9, atmosphere 3.5, service 3.5 |
| Yelp | 2.7 | 101 | Other snapshots: 2.6 from 89 |
| Tripadvisor | Not rated in our results | n/a | Ranked 361st of 965 in Birmingham |
We found no local news on the opening. The food earns the praise and the service and consistency take the blame, as at several Alabama stores.
How does Birmingham tax compare with the rest of Alabama?
| Alabama city | Tax on a meal | Regular Tray |
|---|---|---|
| Huntsville | 9% | $8.06 |
| Auburn | 9% | $8.06 |
| Birmingham | 10% | $8.13 |
| Mobile | 10% | $8.13 |
| Tuscaloosa | 10% | $8.13 |
Avalara lists Birmingham at 4% state, 2% Jefferson County and 4% city, a minimum that can differ by address. Guides: Huntsville, Mobile and Tuscaloosa. Totals apply the tax to typical Cook Out menu prices, not a Birmingham price board.
Is the Birmingham Cook Out worth a stop?
Yes, for a tray and a shake near Homewood, with hours to 3 AM or 4 AM. Check the bag at the window.