In-N-Out Burger can be described in one word: beautiful.
Even if you aren’t a resident of the western U.S. and haven’t gotten a chance to experience biting into a fresh Double-Double, you’ve no doubt seen the fast food chain’s iconic burgers, fries, and shakes on the Instagram pages of everyone who’s traveled to In-N-Out territory.
Photo courtesy of @sarah_spiro on Instagram
For those who don’t reside in an area with an In-N-Out (sorry), you’re probably wondering why the hell it’s such a big deal. For starters, they completely embrace the laid-back, West Coast vibe, and everyone working there is legit awesome.
As for the food itself, the burgers are made with 100% beef patties with no additives or fillers, high quality veggies, zero microwaves or heating lamps used, and fries that are cut and cooked on the spot.
But what outsiders aren’t aware of is that the In-N-Out menu extends far beyond the listed burgers, fries, and shakes. Yep, there’s an entire secret menu full of crazy combos and extraordinary possibilities just waiting to be ordered. Here’s what you need to know:
The Burgers
Animal Style
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This infamous mod takes the classic burger to the next level. The patty is mustard-grilled and topped with chopped caramelized onions and a smear of their famous “spread,” which is basically an awesome Thousand Island sauce.
Protein Style
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For those cutting calories, In-N-Out will wrap your burger in two pieces of lettuce in place of the bun. It’s like zero guilt, duh.
Flying Dutchman
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Self-proclaimed carnivores, this one’s for you. Ask for the Flying Dutchman, and you’ll get a meat bun. Devouring this meaty, cheesy creation sans bun may be a bit messy, so you may want to grab a fork and a knife. All in all, it’s simplicity at its finest.
Grilled Cheese
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Don’t worry herbivores, In-N-Out will take care of you as well! Ask for a grilled cheese or a veggie burger and they’ll give you a bun with cheese and any veggies you’d like. Leave out the cheese for a vegan option. Since their veggies are so fresh and flavorful, this option is still fricken delicious – trust me.
#InNOutTip: Toasty Buns. Order your buns toasted and In-N-Out will gladly do just that.
The Fries
Animal Style
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Basically the best thing you will ever eat. Ordering your fries Animal Style evolves plain fried potatoes into a cheesy dish of awesomeness. Not only do they melt cheese on the fries, but they also add diced caramelized onions and a hefty dollop of sauce.
#SpoonTip: Can’t make it to In-N-Out? Here’s how to make your own Animal Style fries at home.
Cheese Fries
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If you’re not feeling the whole mess of Animal Style, you can still mod your fries to a moderate level of cheesy goodness. But trust me, you’re going to want to get the Animal Style.
#InNOutTip: Light/Well-Done Fries. Order your fries cooked lighter or darker than usual, depending on your preferred level of crispiness.
The Drinks
Neapolitan Shake
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Can’t decide what flavor shake to order? No worries. In-N-Out will satisfy your desires with this Neapolitan masterpiece.
Black and White Shake
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If you’re not quite up for the three-flavor Neapolitan adventure, you can get a tuxedo shake just as easily.
Root Beer Float
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Sometimes you can’t beat the classics.
Arnold Palmer
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Because who doesn’t love a lil tea-lemonade mix to wash down those salty fries?
Even More In-N-Out Tips: Extras
Extra Spread
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The spread is good. It’s really, really good. If you don’t order your food Animal Style, then I recommend asking for a few packets of spread to dip your fries in. And a few extra packets to take home. You’re welcome.
Chili Peppers
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Add some spice to your meal with a side of hot peppers.
Grilled Onions
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Grilled onions are amazing added to anything. Order them on top of your burger either diced or in whole slices and don’t even worry about the onion breath.
The best thing about these extras is they come at no extra charge, which is just one of the many reasons why I love In-N-Out, and why you should, too.