In-N-Out drive-ins, hugely popular in the West and gradually growing eastward, do what McDonald’s once did: offer a simple, efficient menu. In fact, it is four items long: hamburger, cheeseburger, double-double (two patties, two slices of cheese), and French fries. Plus milk shakes and soda pop.
There is nothing secret about this In-N-Out Double with French fries.
As any In-N-Out devotee can tell you, there is much more than that. The secret menu, not posted on the wall but programmed into the restaurant cash register, offers myriad choices. Say any of these terms to the order taker and he or she will understand:
2-by-4: Two beef patties, four slices of cheese.
4-by-4: Four beef patties, four slices of cheese.
Animal-style: Mustard-coated burger topped with grilled onions, pickles, and cheese spread.
Mustard grilled: Animal-style (mustard coating), but without the pickles and cheese spread.
Protein: Substitute lettuce for a bun.
Wish burger: Just vegetables. No meat and no cheese.
Flying Dutchman: Two patties sandwiching two cheese slices, hold the bun.
Extra toast: Crisper bun.
Root beer float: Half root beer, half vanilla milk shake.
Lemon-Up: Half lemonade, half 7-Up.
Neapolitan shake: Vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry milk shakes swirled together.
French fries also can be ordered well done, lightly cooked, topped with melted cheese, or animal-style.