Decoding the In-N-Out Secret Menu
For many, a trip to In-N-Out is not complete without venturing into the not-so-secret realm of customizable orders. The restaurant's famously limited menu offers a vast array of possibilities, with "animal style" and "protein style" being two of the most well-known. While both offer a unique way to enjoy your burger, they cater to completely different tastes and dietary preferences.
What is Animal Style?
Animal style is a flavor-packed modification that adds a richer, more complex taste to a standard burger or fries. It’s an option for those who want an extra dose of savory, tangy flavor and don't mind a little extra mess.
Key components of an animal style burger include:
- Mustard-cooked beef patty: A splash of mustard is added to the patty while it cooks on the grill, creating a zesty flavor that sizzles into the meat.
- Extra spread: This is a more generous serving of In-N-Out's signature Thousand Island-style sauce.
- Pickles: Added right into the burger for a salty, crunchy contrast.
- Grilled onions: Finely chopped onions are cooked until they are sweet and caramelized.
For fries, ordering them animal style means topping a standard order with melted American cheese, extra spread, and a heaping of grilled onions.
What is Protein Style?
Protein style, on the other hand, is a preparation method that transforms a burger into a low-carb, gluten-free option. It is ideal for keto dieters, those with gluten sensitivities, or anyone simply looking for a lighter meal without sacrificing the taste of the beef patty and fresh ingredients. The core characteristic of a protein style burger is the removal of the bun.
Instead of a toasted bun, the ingredients are wrapped in large, crisp lettuce leaves. This creates a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the juicy patty and savory sauces. The rest of the toppings, such as tomato, cheese, and spread, remain the same unless other customizations are requested. A "protein style" order can be combined with other modifications, such as adding grilled onions or mustard-grilled patties.
Animal Style vs. Protein Style Comparison
To help visualize the distinct differences, here is a comparison table outlining the key features of each style.
| Feature | Animal Style | Protein Style |
|---|---|---|
| Bun | Standard toasted bun. | Replaced by a fresh lettuce wrap. |
| Patty | Mustard is added during grilling. | Standard beef patty unless another modification is requested. |
| Sauce | Extra spread is added. | Standard amount of spread, unless customized. |
| Onions | Finely chopped and caramelized on the grill. | Standard, fresh onion slice, or can be customized. |
| Pickles | Added automatically to the burger. | Standard, unless requested otherwise. |
| Dietary Focus | Flavor and indulgence. | Reduced carbs, lighter meal. |
| Carb Count | Higher due to toasted bun. | Significantly lower due to bun replacement. |
| Calories | Higher due to extra sauce and grilled onions. | Lower, making it a lighter alternative. |
Can You Combine Them?
Yes, for the truly adventurous and indecisive, it is possible to combine these two popular options. Ordering a burger "animal style, protein style" results in a lettuce-wrapped burger with a mustard-grilled patty, extra spread, pickles, and grilled onions. This combination delivers the intense, complex flavors of an animal style burger while eliminating the carbohydrates from the bun, offering a rich and savory yet low-carb meal.
How to Order Each Style
Ordering these custom variations is surprisingly simple, as most employees are very familiar with these terms from the unofficial "secret menu".
- To order Animal Style: Simply tell the cashier which burger you want (e.g., "Double-Double") and add "animal style" to your request. For fries, simply ask for "animal style fries".
- To order Protein Style: State the burger you want and add "protein style" to your order. For example, a "Cheeseburger, protein style".
Conclusion
Choosing between animal style and protein style depends on your craving and dietary goals. If you're seeking a flavor explosion of tangy sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and mustard-grilled meat, go for the indulgent animal style. If you're looking for a lighter, low-carb alternative that focuses on fresh flavors and high protein, the lettuce-wrapped protein style is the perfect choice. Both customizations showcase the brand's commitment to delivering a personalized and delicious experience that goes beyond the standard menu offerings.
Explore more about the origins of these iconic fast-food customizations at Serious Eats, which features a comprehensive guide to the full secret menu.
