Travel Itinerary
California’s beloved In-N-Out Burger hides a treasure trove of secret menu options that locals have mastered over decades.
While tourists flock to order basic burgers and fries, California natives know the real magic happens when you venture beyond the standard menu.
These insider favorites transform an already delicious fast food experience into something truly special – and they’re available at every location if you just know what to ask for.
1. Mustard-Grilled Patty
True burger aficionados swear by this simple hack that packs major flavor. The grill cook squirts yellow mustard directly onto the patty while it sizzles, creating a tangy crust that caramelizes beautifully.
Unlike going full Animal Style, this modification keeps things cleaner while still delivering that extra punch of savory goodness. Just ask for your burger “mustard-grilled” at the counter!
2. Whole Grilled Onion
Forget tiny diced onions that scatter everywhere. An upgrade swaps in a full slice of onion, caramelized on the grill until tender and sweet.
Heat tames the sharp bite, turning it into mellow richness while keeping the slice intact. No more bits slipping out with each bite, just concentrated flavor layered perfectly in every mouthful.
3. Chopped Chilies
Heat seekers can rejoice with a fiery twist. Those little yellow banana pepper rings from the condiment bar can be chopped and added right onto a burger when requested.
Zingy peppers strike a balance of gentle heat and vinegary brightness, lifting each bite. They slice through melty cheese richness and spread evenly, sparking taste buds awake while keeping In-N-Out’s classic flavor harmony intact.
4. Add Pickles
Why should Animal Style burgers have all the fun? Crisp, briny pickle chips can be added to any burger order for zero extra cost.
These aren’t your average fast food pickles either – they’re thick-cut with the perfect snap and vinegar punch. The salty-sour profile brilliantly balances the sweetness of the spread and complements the beef’s richness.
5. Extra-Toasty Bun
Texture fans know that contrast makes every bite shine. A simple request keeps the bun on the grill a touch longer, adding satisfying crispiness with a faint toasty aroma.
Extra heat builds a subtle barrier against sauce seepage while unlocking deeper, nutty flavors. That sturdier base means the burger holds firm right to the last bite, turning messy meals into neat, flavorful victories.
6. Fries “Well-Done” (or “Light-Well”)
Standard In-N-Out fries can be divisive, but this modification transforms them entirely! Requesting “well-done” keeps them in the fryer longer for maximum crispiness.
Too extreme? “Light-well” hits the sweet spot between standard and extra-crispy. The extended fry time creates a sturdier exterior that stands up to ketchup without sogginess – perfect for dipping enthusiasts.
7. Cheese Fries
Move over, Animal Style fries; a simpler star is here. Fresh-cut potatoes get blanketed with melty American cheese slices – no spread, no onions, just cheese meeting spud in perfect harmony.
Heat from the fries melts the cheese into gooey, stretchy bites that cling to each piece. Flavor stays balanced so the potato shines, creating a less messy but equally satisfying treat for anyone who loves the cheesy side of life.
8. Flying Dutchman
Carb-conscious carnivores have discovered the ultimate protein fix! Two beef patties embrace melted cheese slices in this bun-less wonder that’s essentially a handheld meat and cheese plate.
No veggies, no sauce, no distractions – just pure, unadulterated beef and cheese. It’s deliciously primal and perfectly portable when you’re craving In-N-Out flavor without the bread.
9. Neapolitan Shake
Why pick just one flavor when three can swirl together so smoothly? A genius shake blends chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into one creamy cup that smells faintly of malt and sweet dairy.
Unlike layered versions elsewhere, In-N-Out mixes all three fully so every sip carries the nostalgic trio in harmony. Sweet strawberry, mellow vanilla, and rich chocolate dance together, creating a flavor symphony that keeps each pull through the straw just as delightful as the last.
10. Root Beer Float
Old-school soda fountain vibes come to life with this refreshing treat! Creamy vanilla shake meets fizzy root beer for the ultimate nostalgic dessert experience.
The carbonation creates tiny ice cream islands that slowly melt into the soda. Sweet, creamy, and effervescent all at once – it’s the perfect palate cleanser after a savory burger and fries combo.