If there’s anything that I try to do by writing this blog, it is to bust hype.  For years, west coasters have always gone on and on about how great In n’ Out Burger is, and how nothing can match the quality of In n’ Out Burger.  I went through the same experience with Five Guys from DC people.  Aaron, my friend that I was staying with in the Valley lived just down the street from an In n’ Out Burger, so he took me to the place so I can see what all the fuss is about.

Aaron insisted that the thing to get at In n’ Out was the Animal-style fries, which were fries topped with caramelized onions, cheese, and thousand island dressing.  While that would sound delicious, the fries on their own were very stale and unappetizing.  Even if they were fresh, I don’t really see how they are any different from McDonald’s fries.  I don’t know what exactly makes this “animal” style, perhaps that this is food more fitting for animals than humans? 

In n’ Out does not offer anything vegetarian friendly, the only option they had was a cheese sandwich or a grilled cheese.  I ordered the grilled cheese because I wanted something a little hot.  It turned out it was just a cheese sandwich on a toasted bun.  Unlike Five Guys, this cheese sandwich was slightly tasty so I will give it a few points for that.

Surprisingly, even McDonalds (in some locations worldwide) offer veggie burgers. Admittedly it is simply a ploy to get increased sales in markets where vegetarianism is quite high (like India).  When people go on about how places like Five Guys or In n’ Out are so great, I have to ask “Do they have a veggie burger?”  In my opinion, any place that doesn’t care about catering to a broad spectrum of clientele simply does not take food service seriously.  These local pale imitations of McDonalds will be just that, and until they are willing to cater to vegetarians, I’ll give them one and a half cheese sandwiches.

In n’ Out Burger
4444 Van Nuys Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-2908 
(800) 786-1000