Guilty Pleasure: In-N-Out

In-N-Out has these wonderful little burgers.  The old fashion American burgers you bite into as opposed to eating with fancy utensils.  Eating the done up variations of this American classic was something I indulged in from time to time.  Maybe the bad economy has made me realize that Kobe burgers or "The Original" DB Bistro Moderne Burger ($32) stuffed with truffle-and-foie gras laced short ribs is rather obnoxious.  Why do we need truffle and foie gras on a burger you ask?  

Exactly what I’m thinking as I bite into my juicy cheeseburger with grilled onion – which by the way is less than 500 calories. (A milkshake is 690!)  But who’s counting calories.  For a few bucks you can enjoy a great tasting meal that touches on the basic food groups:  (1) veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, potato, onion), (2) dairy (cheese, milk shake), (3) bread (buns), and (4) essential fats (kids, don’t believe everything you read).  I wouldn’t be able to make the burger for less than $3.  

But what I really wanted to tell you about is the dog patty.  No, no the meat is still beef.  For the low price of 70 cents you can order a fresh 100% pure beef patty – free of additives, fillers, and preservatives – for your pouch!    

Not a bad deal for the Bay Area.  

In-N-Out is privately owned.  The Synder family opened the first drive-thru In-N-Out in Baldwin Park, CA in 1948.  Everything is made fresh to order.  There are no microwaves or freezers and the milkshake is made from real ice cream.  The menu has basically stayed the same since 1948.  Unless you order from the not-so-secret menu. 

Flickr Photo Credits: Disney Mike, Scott Ableman

Posted: January 13, 2008