In-N-Out Burger has built a reputation on its straightforward menu, featuring classic burgers, fries, and shakes. Despite this apparent simplicity, by 2005, the popular fast-food chain acknowledged some of its most frequently requested special orders by listing them on an online "Not-So-Secret Menu."
Among these well-known custom offerings is the Animal Style burger. According to the company's official website, this variation includes a burger of the customer's choice prepared with fresh hand-leafed lettuce, tomato, a beef patty cooked with mustard, additional pickles, extra spread, and grilled onions.
The Origins of Custom Orders
The company's commitment to customer satisfaction is the driving force behind accommodating these special orders, which is precisely how the Animal Style burger came into being. The name itself was coined on the spot, reflecting a broader trend where many variations to the standard menu items were given distinctive names over the years, often by the customers who regularly ordered them in a particular way. These terms served as a shorthand to ensure an order was prepared precisely to the customer's liking.
A company representative noted that many of these informal names gained traction, leading to a significant number of patrons today ordering from what is colloquially known as the "secret" menu. The representative emphasized, "Whether a ‘secret menu’ order or not, we still cook every burger fresh-to-order, exactly how the customer wants it."
Beyond Animal Style: Other Hidden Menu Favorites
Beyond the Animal Style, In-N-Out's collection of special orders includes several other popular choices. The Double-Meat features two beef patties. The 3x3 offers three beef patties and three slices of American cheese, while the 4x4 expands on this with an additional patty and cheese slice. The Grilled Cheese substitutes the beef patty with two slices of American cheese, and for those seeking a lighter option, the Protein Style presents any burger wrapped in hand-leafed lettuce instead of a bun.
Another notable off-menu item, not typically listed on the company's online menu, is the Flying Dutchman. This minimalist creation consists of two beef patties and two slices of cheese, served without a bun or condiments. According to the company's historical accounts, this particular order was conceived by former CEO Guy Snyder before his passing in 1999.
A Storied History and Enduring Legacy
The legacy of In-N-Out began in 1948 when founders Harry and Esther Snyder opened the inaugural location in a Los Angeles suburb, California, marking it as the state's first drive-thru hamburger stand. By 1973, the operation had expanded to 13 restaurants, all situated within Los Angeles County. Today, the company remains privately owned by the Snyder family, boasting over 400 establishments across 10 states.
The existence of these off-menu choices has been an open secret for decades. As early as 2004, a prominent Los Angeles newspaper reported that In-N-Out patrons had been aware of ordering their burgers Animal Style "for years." In 2005, the same publication encouraged readers to "Relish the not-so-secret menu," highlighting its availability on In-N-Out's website and recommending trying Animal Style burgers alongside well-done fries. The article also playfully suggested looking for the small Bible verse references discreetly placed on wrappers and beneath cups, describing it as "a fun game if you’re trying to sober up from an evening out."
While Animal Style is widely recognized, it continues to attract new enthusiasts. Two years ago, a user on a popular online forum shared their first experience, stating, "Got my burger Animal Style for the first time. It honestly was a game changer and is my new order. I don’t think I will ever go back." Another user recounted a surprising discovery within their own family, responding, "From LA. My parents have been going to [In-N-Out] long before I was born, and they just learned about Animal Style a month ago. I couldn’t believe my frickin ears."