10 Hidden In-N-Out Menu Favorites California Locals Always Order
In-N-Out might be famous for its simple menu, but California locals know the secret: there’s a whole world of hidden favorites waiting to be ordered.
From secret-style burgers to custom fries and unique drink combinations, these options turn a familiar meal into something exciting.
Each choice reflects the creativity and tastes of those who know the chain best, proving that even the simplest menu can hold delicious surprises for anyone willing to ask.
1. Animal Style Burger
Californians practically invented this legendary upgrade, and it’s become the unofficial mascot of In-N-Out’s secret menu.
Your regular burger gets smothered in tangy spread, piled high with caramelized onions, and topped with pickles plus mustard-cooked patty magic.
Locals swear by this combo because it transforms the classic burger into something ridiculously flavorful. The grilled onions add sweetness while the spread brings that signature tang everyone craves.
First-timers usually convert after one bite, joining the Animal Style cult forever.
2. Protein Style
Forget the bun and wrap your burger in crisp, cool lettuce instead. Health-conscious Californians pioneered this trick long before keto became trendy, proving you don’t need carbs to enjoy burger bliss.
The iceberg lettuce stays crunchy and refreshing, giving you that satisfying crunch without weighing you down.
It’s perfect for beach days when you want something filling but not heavy enough to ruin your afternoon surf session. Plus, you can still go Animal Style with it. Win-win situation right there.
3. 3×3 (Triple Triple)
When the Double-Double just won’t cut it, locals order this beast. Three patties, three cheese slices, and enough protein to fuel your entire afternoon make this the go-to for serious appetites.
Construction workers and gym rats love this monster because it’s filling without being ridiculously oversized. You can actually fit it in your mouth, unlike some crazy burger challenges at other joints.
Fair warning though: this isn’t a first-date meal unless you’re really comfortable with each other already.
4. 4×4 (Quad Quad)
Now we’re entering legendary territory. Four patties and four cheese slices create a tower of beefy goodness that separates casual diners from true In-N-Out warriors.
Most locals save this order for special occasions or after particularly brutal workouts.
It’s basically a full meal’s worth of calories in burger form, and honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what you need after a long day at the beach or hiking Runyon Canyon.
Pro tip: unhinge your jaw slightly before attempting this magnificent creation.
5. Grilled Cheese
Vegetarians rejoice because In-N-Out actually remembers you exist. This isn’t just a sad afterthought either; it’s a legit good sandwich that uses all the burger toppings minus the meat.
Kids love it too, making it the perfect option for picky eaters who turn their noses up at beef.
You still get that signature spread, fresh veggies, and perfectly melted cheese on a toasted bun that hits differently than your average grilled cheese. Add grilled onions for extra flavor punch.
6. Flying Dutchman
Pure protein, zero fluff. Two patties hugging two slices of melted cheese with absolutely nothing else makes this the ultimate low-carb power move.
Bodybuilders and keto enthusiasts order this mysterious item by name, often confusing newbies who wonder what kind of pirate ship they accidentally boarded.
It’s basically a cheeseburger that went skinny-dipping and forgot its clothes, but somehow it works perfectly.
Eat it with a fork or just embrace the messy, glorious finger food experience completely.
7. Animal Style Fries
Regular fries are fine, but why settle for fine when you can have phenomenal?
This loaded masterpiece drowns your fries in melted cheese, signature spread, and those addictive grilled onions that make everything better.
Sharing becomes impossible once you taste these because suddenly you’re that person guarding their fries like a dragon protecting treasure.
The cheese gets gooey, the spread adds tang, and the onions bring sweetness that creates perfect harmony. Grab extra napkins immediately. You’ll need them desperately.
8. Neapolitan Shake
Why choose one flavor when you can have all three? This nostalgic throwback combines chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into one glorious shake that tastes like childhood summers.
Locals order this when they’re feeling indecisive or nostalgic for simpler times. The flavors swirl together creating different taste combinations with every sip, kind of like a delicious flavor roulette in your mouth.
Perfect for splitting with friends, though let’s be honest, you probably won’t want to share this creamy perfection at all.
9. Mustard-Grilled Patty
Imagine ordering a burger with an unexpected twist; it’s the mustard-grilled patty. This unique creation involves grilling the beef patty with mustard, infusing it with a tangy flavor that complements the juicy beef perfectly.
The mustard caramelizes slightly, creating a delicious crust that adds a zesty kick to each bite. Many locals swear by this method, claiming it enhances the savory depth of the burger.
It’s a simple addition, but it elevates the classic In-N-Out experience to a whole new level. Once you’ve tried it, you may never go back.
10. Well-Done Fries
If you’ve ever craved extra crunch in your fries, well-done fries are your answer. These fries are cooked longer to achieve a crispy, golden perfection that satisfies the need for crunch.
Unlike regular fries, these have a robust texture and a deeper flavor, making them the ideal sidekick to your burger.
Order them well-done next time, and you’ll find yourself in crispy heaven with every bite. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy fries at In-N-Out, appreciated by locals who love a good, hearty fry.