In-N-Out’s “secret menu” is about as secret as when someone whispers “don’t tell anyone” in a room full of people with phones. It’s not a forbidden underground operation. It’s just… the regular menu, with nicknames and tweaks that have been floating around forever.
And if you’ve ever stood there staring up at the menu board like it’s going to suddenly reveal a hidden level (spoiler: it won’t), I’ve got you. You can order like a seasoned regular without doing the awkward “So… um… what are you allowed to make?” thing.
Because yes, you can absolutely say the words at the counter like a normal person and still get the good stuff.
First: The “Secret Menu” Isn’t Really a Secret
Here’s what’s going on: In-N-Out has always been cool with customization extra cheese, no bun, grilled onions instead of raw, etc. Over time, the most popular combos got little nicknames, and those nicknames stuck.
So when you say “Animal Style fries,” you’re not forcing the cashier to summon a manager and consult an ancient scroll. You’re just using shorthand they already know. (And honestly? They probably hear it a hundred times a day.)
One tiny caveat: some names are more universal than others. “Animal Style” and “Flying Dutchman” are basically fluent In-N-Out. If you request something super niche, just be ready to politely explain it like a functioning adult. That’s it.
Off menu doesn’t mean off limits. It just means the menu board is minding its own business.
The Easy “Order With Confidence” Staples
If you want to dip a toe into secret menu life without feeling like you’re auditioning for a food documentary, start here with a Protein Style carb guide:
Protein Style
Any burger, but wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.
How to say it: “Double-Double Protein Style.”
It’s basically the grown up way of saying “I want the burger, but I also want my jeans to fit tomorrow.”
3×3 or 4×4
Three or four patties, with matching cheese.
How to say it: “3×3” or “4×4.” Add mods after if you want.
Personal opinion: a 4×4 is impressive, but it’s also… a lot. Like, “I need a nap and a life review after this” a lot.
Neapolitan Shake
Chocolate + vanilla + strawberry all blended together.
How to say it: “Neapolitan shake.”
This one is the least dramatic to order and somehow the most delightful, which is a rare combo in life.
Animal Style: The Messy Legend (and Yes, You Want It)
If secret menu items had a prom king, Animal Style would be wearing the crown and making out behind the gym. It’s the gateway order. The one everybody tries first. And for good reason it takes regular In-N-Out and turns the flavor volume up to “sorry, what?”
What “Animal Style” means (in human terms)
On a burger:
- Patty cooked with mustard (tangy little crust situation)
- Extra spread
- Pickles
- Grilled onions (the caramelized kind that smell like happiness)
On fries:
- Melted cheese
- Grilled onions
- Spread on top
You will want a fork for the fries. Could you eat them with your hands? Sure. You could also cut your own bangs at midnight. Doesn’t mean it’s a good idea.
How to order it (no secret handshake required)
Just say:
- “Double-Double Animal Style.”
- “Fries Animal Style.”
That’s it. No theatrics. No “Do you guys… you know… do the thing?” (Please don’t do that. I beg you.)
Price wise, expect Animal Style fries to cost a bit more because you’re adding cheese and onions. The burger upcharge is usually pretty minor since it’s mostly a style + standard toppings.
My favorite “don’t overthink it” combo
If you want the experience without going full food coma:
Double-Double Animal Style + regular fries (or regular fries + Animal Style burger). One indulgence at a time, like a responsible gremlin.
The Flying Dutchman: The Low Carb “I Mean Business” Order
If Animal Style is the party, the Flying Dutchman is the guy who shows up in a black turtleneck and makes direct eye contact while ordering.
A Flying Dutchman is two beef patties with two slices of melted American cheese. No bun. No lettuce. No tomato. Just meat + cheese, wrapped up in paper like a little hot package of commitment.
It often costs less than a regular burger since you’re skipping the bun and toppings (price varies by location, but think roughly a few bucks).
How people dress it up (still bunless)
If you want more flavor without adding bread:
- Onion wrapped: Ask for “Flying Dutchman wrapped in grilled onions.” This gives you something to hold onto besides molten cheese and optimism.
- Tomato wrapped: Thick tomato slices on the outside instead. Lighter, messier, weirdly refreshing.
- Animal Style Flying Dutchman: Yes, you can do that. Same bold flavors, no bun.
Order it like: “Flying Dutchman, Animal Style” (and then add onion wrapped if that’s your thing).
Also, quick reality check: if you mumble your order like you’re confessing a crime, there’s a decent chance you’ll get something… adjacent to what you wanted. Speak clearly. The register is not psychic.
How to Order Like a Regular (Not Like You’re Asking for Contraband)
The smoothest way to order is super simple: start with the base item, then add mods. Like giving directions. Main street first, then the turns.
Here are the magic words cashiers already know:
- Animal Style
- Protein Style
- Flying Dutchman
- 3×3 / 4×4
- Neapolitan shake
Two things that slow everything down (and make you feel awkward)
- Saying “Can I get the secret menu?” and waiting for a guided tour. They’re not going to recite options like they’re reading you bedtime stories. Just name the thing you want.
- Word vomiting every modification in one breath. Give them a second between tweaks so they can actually ring it in. Especially if you’re ordering for multiple people go person by person. Your cashier will silently thank you, and you’ll get the correct food (which is kind of the point).
Your Next Order (Steal This)
If you want a no stress first try, here are three solid “I know what I’m doing” orders and a complete nutrition facts guide:
- Double-Double Animal Style (classic, iconic, slightly unhinged in the best way)
- Double-Double Protein Style (same burger joy, less bread situation)
- Flying Dutchman, onion wrapped (savory, low carb, and surprisingly satisfying)
Now go forth and order with confidence. Let the menu board do its little minimalist routine. You know the good stuff.
