In-N-Out Special Menu Secrets Unveiled (info)
Looking for the in n out special menu? Here’s an updated guide to help you explore off-menu choices. The in n out special menu includes favorites like Animal Style and Flying Dutchman. These are made from standard ingredients.
This introduction covers the secret menu items and hidden menu lore. It gives a clear answer and previews the practical guidance. You’ll learn about popular off-menu orders and rare “super-secret” curiosities.
Sources like Serious Eats confirm In-N-Out’s menu supports more customization than it seems. The chain uses fresh beef, hand-sliced produce, and daily-baked buns. This makes items like Animal Style fries or a Protein Style burger easy to make.
Readers seeking fast answers will find them here. The in n out burger special menu is not a printed list but a living set of options. This article will explain how to order these items and what to expect on calories and allergens.
Next, we break down popular items and super-secret experiments. We also cover ordering lingo, side hacks, and the company practices that let customization thrive. If you love clear, actionable food advice, the following sections will make ordering off-menu at In-N-Out simple, confident, and delicious.
What is the In-N-Out special menu and why it matters
In-N-Out’s menu is simple, but it holds secrets. Fans love the special menu, which is known only to staff and customers. It includes both familiar favorites and new, bold ideas.
These off-menu items range from simple swaps to unique creations. They let customers customize their meals without changing the core recipes. This keeps the brand fresh and exciting.
Definition and distinction: secret menu vs. super-secret items
Secret menu items are common requests. Examples include Animal Style and Protein Style. These are taught to staff and appear on receipts often.
Super-secret items are rare and extreme. Orders like the 100×100 are documented by fans and writers. They are handled on a case-by-case basis, adding to In-N-Out’s legend.
Why fans and locals care: freshness, customization, and brand culture
Freshness is key to In-N-Out’s appeal. They ensure never-frozen beef and daily-baked buns. This keeps custom orders true to the menu’s intent.
Customization is important to customers. They ask for low-carb options and mustard-grilled patties. Staff are trained to accommodate these requests, ensuring variety without clutter.
Brand culture supports these customizations. In-N-Out trains teams to deliver consistently. This turns simple tweaks into beloved local traditions.
How off-menu items became part of In-N-Out lore
Word of mouth spread the legend. Early fans, celebrities, and food writers shared standout orders. Serious Eats and user guides helped make these tweaks famous.
Stories of extreme requests pushed the limits of customization. These incidents only made the hidden menu more intriguing. It became a living part of fan culture.
Most popular in n out secret menu items
In-N-Out is famous for its simple yet tasty menu. But, there’s a secret list of treats that fans love. Here, we’ll explore the top secret menu items you can order today. You’ll learn how to order, what ingredients to ask for, and which options are great for low-carb or meat lovers.
Animal Style burgers turn a regular patty into a flavorful treat. They’re seared with mustard, topped with extra spread, grilled onions, and pickles. Just ask for “Animal Style” at the counter.
Animal Style fries are topped with melted cheese, grilled onions, and spread. You can add pickles if you like. Order them “well done” to keep them crispy under the toppings.
Protein Style swaps the bun for lettuce. This is great for those on a keto or low-carb diet. You can keep all the toppings, so you don’t miss out on flavor.
Flying Dutchman is two beef patties with two slices of melted American cheese. It’s served without a bun or veggies. It’s perfect for those who want a meaty, cheesy snack.
3×3, 4×4 and custom patty/cheese combos let you choose how many patties and slices you want. A 3×3 has three patties and three slices. You can ask for specific doneness, like medium rare.
| Item | Price (estimate) | Calories (estimate) | Dietary fit | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Style Burger | $5.50–$8.00 | 700–950 | Not keto; indulgent | Dairy, egg (spread), gluten (bun) |
| Animal Style Fries | $3.00–$4.50 | 400–600 | Not keto; good as a shareable side | Dairy, egg |
| Protein Style (single) | $3.50–$5.50 | 300–450 | Keto-friendly option | Dairy (cheese), egg (spread) |
| Flying Dutchman | $3.00–$5.00 | 400–600 | Low-carb, high-protein | Dairy |
| 3×3 / 4×4 (example) | $8.00–$12.00 | 900–1,400 | High-calorie; customizable | Dairy, gluten (if bun used) |
- Tip: Say the menu name—Animal Style, Protein Style, Flying Dutchman—to avoid confusion at the drive-thru.
- Tip: For crisp fries under toppings, order well done before requesting Animal Style.
- Tip: When customizing patties and cheese, include doneness and any extra condiments on your request.
These secret menu items are fan favorites. They offer a unique twist on In-N-Out classics. Try one to see why they’re so popular and fit your taste or dietary needs.
Hidden and super secret menu items fans rave about
Fans love the mystery of in n out’s hidden menu. This section explores some of the boldest requests. It shows how these items became part of in n out’s lore. You’ll find short stories, clear ordering tips, and a table to help you order next time.
The 100×100 story is a tale of extreme customization. In 2004, college students ordered a 100-patty by 100-cheese burger. They got it, but corporate later set limits to keep kitchens safe and service consistent.
Small changes can make a big difference. Ask for mustard-grilled to add tang and caramelization to your patty. Request whole grilled onion for a sweeter, stronger bite.
The wishburger or veggie-style sandwich is a great example of flexibility. It’s a meatless sandwich with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and spread. Customers often ask for extra veggies in a separate bag for more freshness.
Some locations have even served odd requests like a small side salad in a Double-Double wrapper. This is rare and depends on staff willingness and timing. It shows how in n out’s menu evolves from customer creativity and crew accommodation.
| Item | How to Order | Price Range | Calories (approx.) | Diet Notes / Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustard-Grilled Burger | Ask for “mustard-grilled” at grill request | $3–$8 depending on patties | 400–900 | Contains wheat, dairy; not gluten-free |
| Whole Grilled Onion | Request “whole grilled onion” instead of chopped | No extra charge or small add | Adds ~20–40 cal | Contains onion; safe for vegetarians |
| Wishburger / Veggie Sandwich | Order “no patties” or “wishburger” with extra veg | Same price as bun + extras | 200–400 depending on add-ons | Vegetarian option; not vegan unless spread removed |
| Wrapper Side Salad | Politely request small salad in wrapper | Free to small charge by location | 30–70 | Contains raw produce; cross-contact possible |
| Extreme Custom Orders (e.g., 100×100) | Not accepted broadly; corporate limits apply | Not standardized | Varies widely | High calorie and saturated fat |
- Be polite and clear. Use exact phrases: “mustard-grilled,” “whole grilled onion,” or “no patties.”
- Expect variation by crew and time of day. Not every location will grant every in n out hidden menu request.
- Consider portion and nutrition. Some in n out secret menu items add calories fast, so plan carefully.
How to order off-menu at In-N-Out like a pro
Ordering off the regular menu at In-N-Out gets easier with practice. Fans who know special menu terms and simple requests get faster service. They also get a burger made just how they like it. Use clear phrases and stay polite to ensure staff can follow your instructions.
Use the right lingo at the intercom or counter. Say the size and style first, for example: “One 3×3, Animal Style, medium-rare, well-toasted bun, cut in half.” Short, specific phrases reduce mistakes and speed up the line. Mention any extra requests before you hear the total.
Be precise about cook temperature and bun toasting. The default tends toward medium-well. Ask for medium-rare or medium if you prefer juicier meat. For buns, request “well-toasted” for a crisp surface or “lightly toasted” for a softer bite. You can get “cold” cheese to keep slices unmelted when you want a firmer texture.
Ask for condiments and extras in plain terms. Extra spread, pickles, grilled or whole onions, and sport peppers are common requests. If you want condiments on the side, say so. Employees often supply extra spread packets or small bags of peppers when asked.
Follow a polite ordering etiquette. State each modification once and keep your voice steady. Staff at busy locations balance speed and accuracy, so clear orders help them list in n out off menu items correctly on the receipt. Treats from the in n out secret menu items are easier to get when you are concise.
Use this quick checklist at the counter or drive-thru:
- Item and size (3×3, 4×4, Flying Dutchman)
- Style (Animal Style, Protein Style)
- Doneness (medium-rare, medium, well)
- Bun toast level (well-toasted, lightly toasted)
- Extras (extra spread, pickles, sport peppers, cold cheese)
Below is a handy reference you can scan while ordering. It lists common requests and how they might appear on a receipt when ordering in n out off menu items.
| Request | How to Say It | Receipt Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Style burger | “One 3×3, Animal Style, medium” | 3×3 Animal | Includes mustard-cooked patty and extra spread |
| Protein Style | “Protein Style, 4×4, well-toasted bun” | 4×4 Protein | Lettuce wrap swap for low-carb diners |
| Cold cheese | “Add cold cheese slices, please” | Cold Cheese | Cheese served unmelted for texture contrast |
| Well-toasted bun | “Well-toasted bun on that” | WT Bun | Crispier outer layer, holds sauces better |
| Extra spread | “Extra spread on side” | Extra Spread | Good for dipping fries or customizing sauce levels |
| Sport peppers | “Add sport peppers, please” | Sport Peppers | Chopped, tangy heat; often provided in small bag |
| Well-done fries | “Well-done fries, extra crispy” | Fries Well | Longer fry time for crunchier texture |
| Whole grilled onion | “Whole grilled onion on burger” | Grilled Onion | Thicker onion flavor, different from chopped grilled |
Best in n out secret menu items for different diets and preferences
Fans can find smart swaps, indulgent classics, and meat-free builds in the in n out burger secret menu. This guide helps you pick items that fit your goals, like keto, comfort eating, or a vegetarian day out.
Low-carb and keto-friendly choices
Protein Style keeps all the flavor but replaces the bun with crisp lettuce. This swap cuts carbs and keeps toppings like spread, tomato, and onion.
The Flying Dutchman has two melted cheese slices around two patties. It removes bread and produce, making it great for strict low-carb plans.
Tip: ask for extra lettuce or bring a low-carb side to round out the meal. For strict macros, request cheese on the side to control portions.
Comfort and indulgence picks
Animal Style turns a burger into a rich, savory treat with grilled onions, extra spread, mustard-cooked patties, and melted cheese. Pair it with Animal Style fries for a high-flavor, high-calorie combo.
Neapolitan shake blends chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry for a decadent finish. This secret shake variation rates high on indulgence and pairs well with a stacked burger.
Vegetarian-friendly options and custom wishburger builds
The Wishburger lets you customize a bun loaded with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and spread without a patty. Add cheese if you tolerate dairy or ask for spread on the side to avoid it.
Customize by requesting extra vegetables, swapping styles, or ordering a side salad. These adjustments make the in n out special menu work for someone who avoids meat while enjoying signature flavors.
| Item | Price (typical) | Calories (estimate) | Dietary options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Style Double-Double | $4.99–$6.49 | ~520–700 | Keto/Low-carb | Dairy, Soy |
| Flying Dutchman | $3.49–$4.49 | ~440–560 | Keto/High-fat | Dairy |
| Animal Style Burger | $3.29–$6.99 | ~700–1,100 | Indulgent | Wheat, Dairy, Soy |
| Animal Style Fries | $2.29–$3.99 | ~400–650 | Comfort side | Dairy, Soy |
| Neapolitan Shake | $2.49–$3.99 | ~450–700 | Indulgent dessert | Dairy |
| Wishburger (no patty) | $1.99–$3.99 | ~200–350 | Vegetarian | Wheat, Dairy (if cheese) |
These options show how in n out special menu choices adapt to different tastes. For a complete dietary breakdown, see the calorie, fat, and allergen notes in Section 9 and the full menu table in Section 11.
Off-menu fries and shakes: how to get the most out of sides
Fans who explore in n out off menu items often treat fries and shakes as the secret stars of a meal. Small tweaks lift ordinary sides into memorable bites. Below are practical tips for ordering, texture preferences, and creative shake mixes that match favorites from the in n out secret menu items and the in n out hidden menu.
Animal Style fries vs. cheese fries
Animal Style fries arrive topped with melted cheese, the classic spread, and grilled onions. Pickles can be added on request. Expect a rich, messy pile that needs a fork or careful hands.
Cheese fries feature melted cheese only. They are simpler, less saucy, and easier to eat on the go. Choose cheese fries when you want the flavor boost without extra spread or onion texture.
Fries doneness and texture tips
Default fries are cooked once from whole Kennebec Idaho potatoes. If you want more crunch, ask for “well-done.” That produces a crisper edge and firmer bite.
Single-fry technique means fries stay tender inside while gaining crispness on the outside when ordered well-done. For softer fries, stick with the standard cook.
Secret shakes and float variations
Shakes are blended from real soft-serve ice cream. A Neapolitan shake mixes chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry swirled together on request. Ask the crew to swirl flavors for a layered look and balanced taste.
Root beer float variations come by ordering root beer with a scoop or a soft vanilla shake swirled in. You can order it as a classic float or request a heavier shake pour for a creamier texture.
| Item | Typical Price | Calories (approx.) | Dietary Notes | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Style Fries | $2.95–$3.50 | ~475 | Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets | Dairy, Onion |
| Cheese Fries | $2.50–$3.00 | ~380 | Vegetarian-friendly; not vegan | Dairy |
| Neapolitan Shake | $3.35–$3.85 | ~650 | Contains dairy; large portion of sugars | Dairy |
| Root Beer Float | $2.95–$3.50 | ~420 | Classic treat; can request lighter shake amount | Dairy |
- Order Animal Style sparingly when sharing; it pairs best with a plain burger to balance richness.
- Ask for well-done fries at the intercom to get extra crisp without changing the potato quality.
- Request a Neapolitan mix or float at the counter; staff at most locations are familiar with these from the in n out secret menu items and the in n out hidden menu.
Behind the counter: why In-N-Out accommodates secret orders
In-N-Out focuses on quality and service. Staff are friendly and take pride in their work. This makes it easy to fulfill special menu requests without slowing down.
Company culture: consistency, service, and accommodating customers
The motto “Quality you can taste” guides In-N-Out. Managers who started as crew members ensure a consistent approach. Good wages and benefits also help keep teams together.
Experienced staff can handle special menu requests quickly and accurately. They see custom orders as part of their service promise.
Fresh supply model and why locations stay within one-day drive of distribution
Every store is close to a distribution center for fresh ingredients. Buns come from in-house bakeries every day. The beef is 100% American chuck, with no fillers.
No freezers, microwaves, or heat lamps are used. This keeps flavors pure. The tight supply chain allows for flexible cooking, even for off-menu items.
Employee training and the “In-N-Out way” that enables customization
In-N-Out University teaches standard procedures. Training covers grilling, toasting, and plating. It teaches exact timings and temperatures for custom orders.
Checklists and hands-on practice help teams prepare special orders. This training ensures consistency across all locations and shifts.
| Practice | Benefit | Relevance to secret orders |
|---|---|---|
| Local distribution limits | Fresh ingredients daily | Supports multi-patty and specialty builds from the in n out special menu |
| Higher wages and promotion-from-within | Experienced staff retention | Familiarity with in n out off menu items and quick service |
| Formalized training program | Consistent preparation | Enables precise requests from the in n out hidden menu |
Nutrition and ingredient facts to know about secret menu items
In-N-Out uses simple, clear ingredients. Knowing this helps you understand the calories, fat, and allergens in secret menu items.
Fresh ingredients policy
Beef is 100% American chuck, never frozen, with no fillers or preservatives. Produce includes hand-sliced onions, hand-leafed lettuce, and vine-ripened tomatoes. Buns are made from daily-baked sponge dough with no preservatives.
Fries are from whole Kennebec Idaho potatoes, fried in trans-fat free vegetable oil. Shakes are made with real ice cream.
Calorie and fat considerations
Animal Style and multi-patty burgers have more calories due to extra spread, melted cheese, and extra patties. The Flying Dutchman is mostly fat and protein, with two slices of cheese and two beef patties, but no bun.
Protein Style removes the bun to cut carbs but keeps calories from patties, cheese, and spread. Use these facts to balance indulgence with nutrition goals when choosing items from the in n out hidden menu.
| Item | Typical Calories | Main Macronutrients | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Burger | ≈390 | Protein: 19g, Fat: 21g, Carbs: 33g | Contains dairy, gluten; request Protein Style for lower carbs |
| Animal Style Burger | ≈630 | Protein: 25g, Fat: 37g, Carbs: 44g | Higher sodium and saturated fat due to extra spread and cheese |
| 3×3 (Triple) | ≈1,000 | Protein: 60g, Fat: 70g, Carbs: 40g | Very high in calories; share or modify to reduce intake |
| Flying Dutchman | ≈470 | Protein: 36g, Fat: 36g, Carbs: 2g | Low carb, high fat; not suitable for dairy-free diets |
| Protein Style (Single) | ≈300 | Protein: 19g, Fat: 21g, Carbs: 7g | Gluten reduced by removing bun; watch cross-contact |
Allergen and dietary notes
Dairy is in cheese, shakes, and spread. The spread may include mayonnaise with eggs. Buns have gluten, so Protein Style helps those avoiding gluten but does not eliminate cross-contact risk.
Most menu items do not list tree nuts, yet shared prep areas can cause trace exposure. For vegetarian requests, a wishburger or grilled cheese must be specified without meat. Vegans should ask to remove cheese and verify spread ingredients before ordering items from the in n out secret menu items.
When you need precise allergen data or want to tailor a request from the in n out special menu, ask staff for the most recent in-store ingredient list. Policies can vary by location, and staff can confirm cross-contact risks for any in n out hidden menu modifications.
Regional availability and expansion: where you can order secret items
Want to know where you can find the in n out special menu? In-N-Out started on the West Coast and has grown slowly. They follow a model to keep each restaurant close to a distribution center. This ensures freshness and quality, but slows down their expansion.
Looking for in n out off menu items? Check out California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Oregon, and parts of Texas. New locations open after careful planning and refrigerated deliveries. You’ll find the same secret options in areas with stable distribution.
How well a crew knows secret orders varies by location. Most can handle Animal Style, Protein Style, and Flying Dutchman easily. But, for super-secret orders, be patient and clear. Ask nicely and check if a manager can make your special request.
Traveling? Knowing simple phrases like “Animal Style fries” helps. Speak slowly at the intercom and mention any special requests. If unsure, ask for the closest thing from the in n out burger special menu.
In-N-Out offers catering and party truck services for events. Catering usually sticks to core items, but secret options can be added if asked. For events, call the local store or use the party truck contact to confirm what secret items are available.
| Service | Typical Availability | Common Secret Items Offered | Booking Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk-up / Drive-thru | Most locations near distribution hubs | Animal Style, Protein Style, Flying Dutchman, 3×3 | Use clear lingo, order standard secret names |
| Out-of-area locations | Limited in very new or remote stores | Core secret menu items; super-secret may vary | Ask manager; be ready to accept substitute |
| Catering | Available through official party truck or store | Burgers, fries; common off-menu items on request | Book early, confirm secret item inclusion |
| Special events / parties | City-by-city, depends on logistics | Core in n out special menu choices usually offered | Provide guest count and menu preferences in advance |
in n out special menu
Discover a list of favorite off-menu items to order with confidence. The in n out special menu is loved for its customization and simple flavors. Here are some common requests, safe pairings, and how items show up on receipts.
Commonly requested off-menu items
- Animal Style burger — mustard-grilled patty, extra spread, pickles, grilled onions.
- Animal Style fries — fries topped with cheese, spread, and grilled onions.
- Protein Style — burger wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb swap.
- Flying Dutchman — two patties with two slices of cheese, no bun.
- 3×3 / 4×4 — triple and quadruple patty-and-cheese stacks for extra protein.
- 100×100 (historical note) — extreme order, largely a legend due to kitchen limits.
- Mustard-grilled — patties grilled with mustard for a tangy crust.
- Whole grilled onion — a thick, charred onion cooked on the grill.
- Wishburger / Veggie Burger — customized meatless sandwiches using available toppings.
- Neapolitan shake and Root beer float — mixed-shake and float options not listed on the standard menu.
- Cheese fries and Well-done fries — texture and topping changes to suit taste.
How to combine secret options safely and tastily
- Pair Animal Style burger with well-done fries for a crisp contrast and richer mouthfeel.
- Order a Protein Style Flying Dutchman to cut carbs while keeping a satisfying texture.
- Match a Neapolitan shake with cheese fries for a sweet-salty finish that balances richness.
- Ask for condiments on the side when monitoring sodium, fat, or allergens.
- Request “no cheese” or “no spread” when avoiding dairy or eggs to reduce allergen risk.
Receipt and order record
Receipts and kitchen tickets usually reflect the phrasing you used. Terms like “3×3,” “Protein Style,” and “Animal Style” will appear so staff know what to prepare. Extras such as “well-done fries,” “extra spread,” or “cold cheese” are often itemized for clarity.
Dietary breakdown
| Item | Price | Calories | Vegan/Keto/Gluten-Free Options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Style Burger | Price: varies by market | High (extra spread & cheese) | Not vegan; keto possible with Protein Style adaptation | Dairy, egg, gluten |
| Animal Style Fries | Price: varies | High (cheese + spread) | Not vegan; not reliably gluten-free due to cross-contact | Dairy, egg |
| Protein Style (lettuce wrap) | Price: price of burger | Lower carbs vs. bun | Keto-friendly; not vegan if cheese/spread used | Dairy, egg, possible gluten cross-contact |
| Flying Dutchman | Price: historically around $2.00 (varies) | High fat/protein, low carbs | Keto-friendly; not vegan | Dairy |
| 3×3 / 4×4 | Price: market-dependent | Very high (multiple patties & cheese) | Can be made Protein Style for lower carbs | Dairy, gluten |
| Neapolitan Shake | Price: varies | High (real ice cream) | Not vegan | Dairy |
| Wishburger / Veggie Burger | Price: price of burger | Lower without patty; depends on toppings | Vegetarian with dairy; vegan only if cheese and spread omitted | Dairy, egg |
| Cheese Fries | Price: varies | High | Not vegan; not gluten-free if cross-contact | Dairy |
| Well-done Fries | Price: varies | Variable based on portion | Not vegan if cross-contact; gluten concerns possible | Possible cross-contact with dairy |
For exact calorie counts and current pricing, check in-store pamphlets or In-N-Out’s official info. This guide helps you mix flavors from the in n out secret menu items. It also shows how to pick safe swaps and spot choices on your ticket.
Conclusion
The in n out special menu offers a mix of classic favorites and fun surprises. Favorites like Animal Style and Protein Style are staples. The Flying Dutchman and multi-patty combos are also big hits.
But there’s more. Mustard-grilled burgers and whole grilled onions show In-N-Out’s creativity. Plus, stories like the 100×100 highlight the chain’s rich history.
Here are some tips to enjoy your meal. Use In-N-Out lingo at the counter. Tell them how you like your burger and toppings. And, check the nutrition guides for calorie and allergen info.
If you’re traveling, ask if they can make your special request. Remember, what’s possible can vary by location and staff.
For a great first try, go for Protein Style or Animal Style. They cater to different tastes. Then, mix and match items to find your new favorite.
And don’t forget to check your receipt for menu descriptions. This way, you can order your favorites again with ease.
Next time you see the yellow and red sign, try something new. Whether you’re looking for a quick, low-carb option or a secret treat, In-N-Out has you covered. Their commitment to fresh ingredients makes every bite a delight.
