In-N-Out Burger’s Not-So-Secret Menu Explained

In-N-Out Burger is known for its streamlined menu featuring basic burgers, fries, and shakes. By 2005, the fast-food chain started listing popular off-menu items on a ‘Not-So-Secret Menu’ online. One of the most iconic items is the Animal Style burger, described as a burger of your choice with hand-leafed lettuce, tomato, a mustard-cooked beef patty, added pickle, extra spread, and grilled onions.

According to In-N-Out, the restaurants accommodate special orders, focusing on customer happiness. This approach birthed the Animal Style burger in the early 1960s when a customer observed an associate customizing a burger for himself and requested the same. Chief Operating Officer Denny Warnick noted that the name originated spontaneously, and many menu variations became named by frequent customers.

Besides Animal Style, In-N-Out’s off-menu list includes Double-Meat, featuring two beef patties; the 3×3, with three beef patties and three slices of American cheese; the 4×4, which adds another patty and cheese slice; the Grilled Cheese, replacing a burger patty with American cheese; and Protein Style, where the burger is wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.

The first In-N-Out was opened by founders Harry and Esther Snyder in 1948 in Los Angeles, marking California’s first drive-thru hamburger stand. By 1973, the company expanded to 13 restaurants, all in Los Angeles County. Today, it remains privately owned by the Snyder family, boasting over 400 locations across 10 states.

Off-menu options have been known among customers for decades, often resulting from customer customizations. The Los Angeles Times highlighted these options in 2004 and advised enjoying the not-so-secret menu. They also suggested customers try Animal Style burgers and well-done fries, and explore Bible verse references on wrappers and cups as a fun activity.

The Animal Style burger continues to convert fans. A Reddit user shared their first experience with the burger, describing it as a ‘game changer,’ while another noted their disbelief upon discovering it recently despite a long-term family association with In-N-Out.

Another lesser-known option not listed online is the Flying Dutchman, consisting of two patties and cheese slices without buns or condiments. This item originated from former CEO Guy Snyder before his passing in 1999, further cementing the culture of customization at In-N-Out.

Teresa Mull, a freelance writer for Fox News Digital’s Lifestyle team, contributed to the article.