The packed parking lot and lines of cars extending out to MacArthur Drive can only mean one thing — Cook Out is officially open.

The eatery famous for its burgers and milkshakes started welcoming customers Nov. 9. The diner offers burgers that are fresh, never frozen, as well as hot dogs, chicken and barbecue pork. It offers 40-plus milkshakes flavors.

The burgers are char-grilled and are served with your choice of mustard, ketchup, pickles, onion, grilled onions, and lettuce. Cajun seasoning is also available upon request. Burgers can also be topped off with tomatoes, bacon, cheese, homemade chili or homemade slaw.

There are five different char-grilled chicken breast sandwiches to pick from as well as two spicy varieties and chicken strip options.

The BBQ pork can be served as a sandwich or by the plate.

They shop sells a basic hot dog or you can try its Cook-Out style, Mexi-style or bacon cheddar dog. It has several sides to choose from and also offer corn dogs and crispy chicken wraps. Cook Out is at 705 W. Oglethorpe Highway.

Just down the road inside the new Oglethorpe Shopping Complex, signs across the parking lot indicate that the Barberitos Southwestern Grille and Cantina will open soon. Work crews have been piecing the interior together. The grand opening has not been announced.

The very first Barberitos was in Athens. Founder Downing Barber had traveled frequently throughout the Southwest and developed a liking for burritos made with farm fresh ingredients.

Its guacamole and sauces are made fresh daily. Barberitos grates its cheese by hand, makes fired chips and buys local vegetables which are chopped daily. It offers gluten free chips and corn shells. The restaurant also has seven menu items that are under 300 calories.