How To Order At In-N-Out Like A Pro

Ibrahim Johnson 08 May 2025

Listen up, burger lovers! If you've ever found yourself staring at the menu board wondering what the heck "secret menu" items are or how to get your fries just right, you're not alone. Ordering at In-N-Out can feel like stepping into a whole new world of fast-food awesomeness. But don't sweat it—we’ve got your back. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned fan looking to level up your game, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to order at In-N-Out like a total pro. So grab a pen (or your phone), because this is going to be epic.

Let’s break it down real quick. In-N-Out is more than just a burger joint; it’s an experience. The moment you pull up to one of their locations, you’re greeted by that iconic yellow sign, the smell of freshly grilled beef, and the promise of a meal that’s way better than your average drive-thru fare. But here’s the thing—there’s a whole lot more to In-N-Out than meets the eye. From customizing your order to mastering the secret menu, there’s plenty to learn if you want to make the most out of your visit.

So, buckle up and get ready to dive deep into the art of ordering at In-N-Out. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to walk into any location with confidence, knowing exactly how to get exactly what you want. Let’s get started!

The In-N-Out Story
Decoding the Menu
Customizing Your Order
Exploring the Secret Menu
Pro Tips for Ordering
All About Those Fries
Beverage Options and Pairings
Nutritional Info You Need to Know
Finding Your Nearest In-N-Out
Frequently Asked Questions

The In-N-Out Story

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to order, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. In-N-Out Burger was born way back in 1948 in Baldwin Park, California. Founded by Harry and Esther Snyder, it quickly became a favorite among locals thanks to its simple yet delicious menu and commitment to quality ingredients. What started as a small burger stand has grown into a cult favorite across the western United States, with fans traveling miles just to get their hands on those famous Double-Double burgers.

What makes In-N-Out so special? For starters, they stick to the basics. No fancy salads or complicated toppings here—just good old-fashioned burgers, fries, and shakes made with fresh ingredients. Their dedication to simplicity and quality has earned them a loyal following, and trust us, once you try it, you’ll understand why.

Why In-N-Out Stands Out

There are plenty of burger joints out there, but In-N-Out has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on three key things: freshness, consistency, and customer satisfaction. Every patty is cooked fresh to order, and they even grind their own beef daily. Plus, their employees are known for being friendly and attentive, which adds to the overall experience.

Alright, let’s talk about the menu. At first glance, it might seem pretty straightforward, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find:

Hamburger: A classic single-patty burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
Cheeseburger: Same as above, but without the cheese.
Double-Double: Two patties, two slices of cheese, and all the fixings. This is In-N-Out’s most popular item.
3x3: Three patties, three slices of cheese, and everything else. Not for the faint of heart!
Fries: Crispy, salty, and perfect for dipping in ketchup or animal style sauce.
Drinks: From classic sodas to milkshakes, you’ve got plenty of options to wash it all down.

Now, here’s the kicker—this is just the tip of the iceberg. Keep reading to discover how you can take your order to the next level.

Menu Variations

While the official menu is great, it’s only the beginning. In-N-Out encourages customers to customize their orders, which brings us to the next section.

Customizing Your Order

One of the coolest things about In-N-Out is that you’re not limited to the items listed on the menu. Want fewer pickles? No problem. Prefer your burger cooked medium instead of well-done? They’ve got you covered. Customization is key, and the staff is trained to handle just about any request you throw their way.

Here are some common customizations you can try:

Hold the onions or pickles if you’re not a fan.
Ask for extra toppings like lettuce or tomato.
Specify how you want your burger cooked—rare, medium, or well-done.
Request "grilled" onions for a smoky twist.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and let the cashier know exactly what you want. They’re used to it, and they’ll make sure your burger is exactly how you like it.

Why Customize?

Customization isn’t just about personal preference—it’s about making your meal your own. Whether you’re trying to cut down on certain ingredients for dietary reasons or you just want to experiment with new flavors, customizing your order gives you the freedom to do just that.

Exploring the Secret Menu

Now we’re getting into the good stuff. The secret menu at In-N-Out is legendary, and for good reason. These items aren’t listed anywhere on the official menu, but they’re totally legit and worth trying. Here are a few of our favorites:

Animal Style: This is where it gets exciting. Animal Style fries come topped with grilled onions, pickles, and a special Thousand Island-style sauce. You can also order your burger Animal Style for an extra burst of flavor.
Protein Style: Swap the bun for lettuce leaves for a lower-carb option. Perfect for those watching their carb intake.
Neapolitan Shake: A mix of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry for the ultimate indulgence.
4x4: Four patties, four slices of cheese, and all the fixings. If you’re feeling adventurous, this one’s for you.

Just remember, to order from the secret menu, you’ll need to say the name of the item out loud. It’s not listed anywhere, so you’ll have to commit it to memory.

How Did the Secret Menu Start?

The secret menu has been around for decades, and it’s all thanks to the Snyder family’s willingness to experiment. Over time, certain items became so popular that they became unofficial staples, even though they’re not officially advertised. It’s part of what makes In-N-Out so unique and fun to visit.

Pro Tips for Ordering

Ready to take your In-N-Out experience to the next level? Here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

Know Your Order: Decide what you want before you get to the register. This will help the line move faster and ensure you get exactly what you’re craving.
Use the Drive-Thru: If you’re in a hurry, the drive-thru is a great option. Just pull up, place your order, and enjoy your meal on the go.
Be Polite: A little kindness goes a long way. Say “please” and “thank you,” and the staff will appreciate it.
Split Orders: If you’re with a group, consider splitting your order to try different items. This way, everyone gets a taste of everything.

These tips may seem simple, but they can make a big difference in your overall experience. Plus, who doesn’t love a smooth, stress-free visit to their favorite burger joint?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While ordering at In-N-Out is pretty straightforward, there are a few common mistakes people make. Here are a couple to watch out for:

Not customizing your order. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want!
Overloading your plate. Start small if you’re new to In-N-Out—you can always come back for more.

All About Those Fries

No In-N-Out visit is complete without a side of fries. But did you know there’s more to their fries than meets the eye? Here’s what makes them so special:

In-N-Out fries are cooked in 100% pure beef tallow, which gives them that signature flavor you can’t find anywhere else. They’re also cut fresh daily, ensuring maximum crispiness and flavor. Whether you prefer them plain or Animal Style, they’re a must-try.

Fry Hacks You Need to Know

Here are a few hacks to make the most out of your fries:

Order them Animal Style for an extra burst of flavor.
Split a large order with a friend to share the love.
Try dipping them in a milkshake for a sweet and salty treat.

Beverage Options and Pairings

Now that you’ve got your burger and fries figured out, let’s talk drinks. In-N-Out offers a variety of beverages to quench your thirst, from classic sodas to creamy milkshakes. Here’s a quick rundown:

Sodas: Classic Coke, Sprite, and Dr Pepper are all on the menu.
Milkshakes: Vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry are the classics, but don’t forget about the Neapolitan option.
Water: Always a good choice if you’re looking for something refreshing and calorie-free.

When it comes to pairings, we recommend sticking with a milkshake if you’re going all-out with a 3x3 or 4x4. For lighter meals, a soda or water works perfectly.

Shake Secrets

Did you know you can order half-sized shakes? Just ask for a “kid size” shake, and you’ll get a smaller portion without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great option if you’re sharing or just want a taste.

Nutritional Info You Need to Know

Let’s be real—In-N-Out isn’t exactly known for being a health food haven. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make smart choices. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional info for some of their most popular items:

Hamburger: Approximately 280 calories.
Double-Double: Around 700 calories.
Animal Style Fries: Roughly 500 calories.
Vanilla Shake: About 500 calories.

If you’re watching your intake, consider going with a single-patty burger or splitting a larger order with a friend. Balance is key!

Healthy Options?

While In-N-Out isn’t exactly a health food paradise, there are ways to make healthier choices. Opt for a Protein Style burger to cut down on carbs, or skip the fries altogether and go for a side salad instead.

Finding Your Nearest In-N-Out

Ready to visit? In-N-Out has locations across the western United States, including California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Texas, and Oregon. You can use their official website or a food delivery app to find the nearest location to you.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling, keep an eye out for In-N-Out signs on highways. They’re often located near rest stops, making them a perfect pit stop during long road trips.

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How To Order At In-N-Out Like A Pro

Table of Contents

The In-N-Out Story

Why In-N-Out Stands Out

Decoding the Menu