These Secret In-N-Out Orders California Locals Ask For Again And Again

The menu looks simple at first glance. Burgers, fries, shakes, nothing flashy, nothing extra. Yet something deeper hums beneath the surface, a quiet understanding shared between longtime customers and the people behind the counter.

Orders move fast, but knowing glances and confident requests reveal another layer entirely. A language of customization lives here, passed along through friends, late nights, and countless drive-thru visits.

In-N-Out Burger has built a reputation on freshness, consistency, and restraint, but regulars know creativity thrives within those boundaries.

Generations in California have grown up learning how to bend the menu just enough to make every order feel personal.

Extra patties, different buns, unexpected swaps, subtle tweaks that change the entire experience without changing the soul of the food. The joy comes from knowing what to ask for and how to ask for it.

These off-menu orders feel like small rewards for paying attention. They turn a familiar meal into something tailored, something earned.

In-N-Out does not advertise these options, yet they remain an open invitation for anyone curious enough to explore.

What looks simple on the surface hides a world of possibilities waiting at the counter.

1. Protein Style

For those who want to skip the carbs but still enjoy a full-flavored burger, Protein Style is the go-to order at In-N-Out.

Instead of a traditional bun, the burger arrives wrapped in crisp, cold iceberg lettuce that adds a refreshing crunch with every bite.

The lettuce is sturdy enough to hold everything together, and the coolness contrasts nicely with the warm, juicy patty.

This option has been around for years, long before low-carb diets became mainstream, and it’s a favorite among health-conscious locals who don’t want to sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

The lettuce wrap keeps things light without feeling like a compromise, and you still get all the toppings you love – tomato, onion, spread, and cheese.

Some people even combine Protein Style with Animal Style for a burger that’s both indulgent and relatively low in carbs.

The texture is different from a traditional burger, but many regulars prefer it this way because it lets the beef and toppings shine without the heaviness of a bun.

It’s also a great choice on hot California days when something lighter feels more appealing. Protein Style proves that you don’t need bread to enjoy a truly satisfying burger experience.

2. Flying Dutchman

Sometimes you just want the beef and cheese without any distractions, and that’s exactly what the Flying Dutchman at 7009 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 delivers.

This ultra-simple order consists of two beef patties with two slices of melted cheese in between, served without a bun, lettuce, or any other toppings.

It’s pure protein, cooked fresh and handed over in a small container or wrapped in paper.

The Flying Dutchman has a cult following among locals who are on strict low-carb or keto diets, but it’s also popular with anyone who just loves the taste of In-N-Out’s beef and cheese combination.

The patties are juicy and well-seasoned, and the melted cheese binds everything together in a way that feels surprisingly complete despite the lack of extras.

Some people eat it with a fork, while others just pick it up and enjoy it as is.

This order is also a favorite for those who want to add their own toppings at home or combine it with other items. It’s straightforward, no-frills, and deeply satisfying in its simplicity.

The Flying Dutchman proves that sometimes less really is more, especially when the ingredients are this fresh and flavorful.

3. 3×3

When a regular burger just won’t cut it, locals turn to the 3×3, a towering creation that stacks three beef patties and three slices of cheese between two buns.

This order isn’t on the main menu, but it’s been a staple of the secret menu for years, and the staff knows exactly how to build it.

Each patty is cooked to order, and the cheese melts perfectly over the hot beef, creating layers of savory goodness.

The 3×3 is popular among those with big appetites or anyone who wants to share a truly substantial burger with friends.

It’s hefty without being impossible to eat, and the proportions are surprisingly balanced despite the extra meat and cheese.

The bun holds up well, and the standard toppings – lettuce, tomato, onion, and spread – are still present to add freshness and texture.

Many people order the 3×3 Animal Style for an even richer experience, combining the extra patties with grilled onions and mustard-grilled beef.

It’s a meal that feels celebratory, the kind of thing you order when you’re really hungry or when you want to treat yourself. The 3×3 is proof that In-N-Out’s simple approach to burgers scales up beautifully.

4. Grilled Cheese

Not everyone who visits In-N-Out is in the mood for beef, and that’s where the Grilled Cheese comes in.

This vegetarian-friendly option features two slices of melted American cheese sandwiched between a toasted bun, along with lettuce, tomato, onion, and the signature spread.

It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for anyone who wants the In-N-Out experience without the meat.

The Grilled Cheese has been a quiet favorite among locals for years, especially for kids or vegetarians who want to join in on the In-N-Out tradition.

The cheese melts beautifully, and the spread adds a tangy creaminess that makes the whole thing feel more substantial than just a basic grilled cheese.

The vegetables add crunch and freshness, and the bun is toasted just enough to provide a bit of texture.

Some people customize their Grilled Cheese by adding grilled onions or ordering it Animal Style for an extra layer of flavor.

It’s a versatile order that works well for a light lunch or a side to share with fries. The Grilled Cheese proves that In-N-Out’s quality ingredients shine even without the signature beef patty.

5. Mustard-Grilled Patty

One of the simplest yet most flavorful customizations you can request at In-N-Out is a mustard-grilled patty.

When you order this at 4601 Firestone Blvd, South Gate, CA 90280, the cook spreads a thin layer of mustard directly onto the raw patty before placing it on the grill.

As the beef cooks, the mustard caramelizes and forms a tangy, slightly crispy crust that adds a whole new dimension of flavor to the burger.

This technique is actually part of what makes the Animal Style burger so special, but you can request it on any burger without the other Animal Style additions.

The mustard-grilled patty appeals to those who want a bit more complexity in their burger without going all-in on extra toppings.

The tangy note from the mustard balances the richness of the beef and cheese, and the caramelization adds a subtle sweetness that’s hard to resist.

Many locals who’ve been eating at In-N-Out for years swear by this customization, claiming it’s the secret to making any burger taste better.

It’s a small change that makes a big difference, and once you try it, you may never go back to a regular patty.

The mustard-grilled patty is proof that sometimes the best flavors come from the simplest techniques.

6. Whole Grilled Onion

Grilled onions are a beloved topping at In-N-Out, but most people only know about the chopped, caramelized version that comes on Animal Style orders.

Locals, however, know to ask for a whole grilled onion, which is a thick slice of onion that’s been grilled until it’s soft, sweet, and slightly charred. This version has a more pronounced onion flavor and a firmer texture than the chopped variety.

The whole grilled onion adds a bold, savory element to any burger, and it’s perfect for those who love the taste of onions but want them to stand out rather than blend into the background.

The grilling process mellows the sharpness of the raw onion and brings out a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the beef and cheese.

Some people order their burger with both raw and whole grilled onions for a layered onion experience.

This customization is less well-known than some of the other secret menu items, which makes it feel like a true insider tip.

It’s a favorite among onion lovers and anyone who appreciates the depth of flavor that comes from slow-cooked vegetables. The whole grilled onion is a simple addition that can completely transform your burger.

7. Extra Toasted Bun

The bun at In-N-Out is already lightly toasted on the grill, but if you prefer a crunchier, more golden bun, you can ask for it to be extra toasted.

This small customization makes a noticeable difference in texture, giving the bun a firmer exterior that holds up better against juicy patties and saucy toppings.

The extra toasting also brings out a slightly nutty, caramelized flavor that adds another layer to the overall burger experience.

Locals who order their buns extra toasted at 27380 La Paz Rd, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 often say it helps keep the burger from getting soggy, especially if they’re adding extra spread or grilled onions.

The crunch provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, melty cheese and tender beef, and it makes each bite feel more substantial.

Some people even request their bun to be well-done, which means it’s toasted until it’s deeply golden and almost crispy.

This is one of those customizations that seems minor but can really elevate your meal if you appreciate texture.

It’s a favorite among those who like a bit of crunch in their burgers and anyone who’s ever been disappointed by a soggy bun. The extra toasted bun is a simple way to personalize your order and make it feel just right.

8. 4×4

For the truly hungry, the 4×4 is the ultimate In-N-Out challenge, featuring four beef patties and four slices of cheese stacked into one massive burger.

This order is legendary among In-N-Out fans, and it’s not uncommon to see groups of friends daring each other to finish one.

The burger is impressively tall, and each layer of beef and cheese adds to the rich, meaty flavor that defines the In-N-Out experience.

Despite its size, the 4×4 is built with the same care and attention as any other burger on the menu. The patties are cooked fresh, the cheese melts evenly, and the toppings are arranged to provide balance and texture.

Some people split it with a friend, while others take on the challenge solo, savoring every bite. It’s messy, it’s indulgent, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.

Ordering a 4×4 feels like a declaration of serious hunger or a celebration of In-N-Out’s ability to deliver quality even at scale.

Many locals have fond memories of ordering a 4×4 at 7009 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 after a long day at the beach or following a big game. It’s not an everyday order, but when the craving hits, nothing else will do.

9. Animal Style

Ask for Animal Style at any In-N-Out location (including 27510 The Old Rd, Valencia, CA 91355), and you’ll get a burger that’s been transformed into something much richer and more flavorful than the standard version.

The patty gets cooked with mustard pressed directly onto the grill, creating a tangy caramelized crust that adds depth to every bite.

Then comes the toppings: extra spread, pickles, and a generous heap of grilled onions that have been slowly cooked until they’re soft and sweet.

This customization has become so popular that many first-time visitors already know to ask for it by name.

The grilled onions are the real star here, adding a mellow sweetness that balances out the sharpness of the mustard and the creaminess of the spread.

Some people even order their fries Animal Style, which means they come smothered in melted cheese, grilled onions, and that signature spread.

The whole experience feels indulgent without being overwhelming, and the flavors work together in a way that feels both familiar and special.

Locals love this order because it takes the classic In-N-Out burger and elevates it with just a few simple additions.

It’s messy, it’s satisfying, and it’s become a rite of passage for anyone who takes their burger game seriously in California.

10. Chopped Chilis

For those who like a little heat with their burger, chopped chilis are the perfect addition. In-N-Out keeps yellow chili peppers on hand, and they’ll happily add them to your burger or fries if you ask.

The peppers have a mild to moderate heat level, with a tangy, slightly pickled flavor that adds brightness and a kick to every bite.

Chopped chilis are especially popular among locals who grew up eating spicy food and want to add a bit of their own flavor profile to the classic In-N-Out burger.

The peppers pair well with the richness of the beef and cheese, cutting through the fat and adding a refreshing zing.

Some people order them on their fries for an extra layer of flavor, while others like to pile them high on a Double-Double or Animal Style burger.

This customization is easy to overlook if you don’t know to ask for it, but once you try it, you may find yourself ordering it every time.

The chopped chilis are available at most locations, and they’re a great way to personalize your meal without straying too far from the classic In-N-Out experience.

11. Cold Cheese

Most people expect their cheese to be melted and gooey, but some In-N-Out regulars (including those at 333 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133) prefer it cold and unmelted, placed on the burger after the patty comes off the grill.

This unusual request gives the burger a completely different texture and temperature contrast, with the cold cheese providing a firm, creamy layer against the hot, juicy beef.

Cold cheese fans say it allows the flavor of the cheese to come through more clearly without being overwhelmed by the heat of the patty.

The texture is also different – instead of melting into the beef, the cheese stays distinct and adds a refreshing coolness to each bite.

Some people combine this with other customizations, like extra spread or grilled onions, to create a burger that’s uniquely their own.

This order is definitely not for everyone, but it’s a testament to the flexibility of the In-N-Out menu and the willingness of the staff to accommodate just about any request.

If you’re someone who likes to experiment with textures and temperatures, cold cheese might be worth a try.

12. Extra Spread

The signature spread at In-N-Out is one of the most beloved elements of the menu, a tangy, creamy sauce that tastes like a combination of Thousand Island dressing and burger sauce.

It comes standard on most burgers, but locals know to ask for extra spread if they want their burger to be even saucier and more flavorful. The extra spread soaks into the bun and coats every ingredient, making each bite rich and satisfying.

This customization is especially popular among those who love the spread so much that they wish every burger came with more of it.

The sauce adds moisture and tanginess, balancing out the richness of the beef and cheese. Some people even ask for spread on the side so they can dip their fries or add more to their burger as they eat.

Extra spread is one of the easiest and most popular customizations at In-N-Out, and it’s a great way to make your burger feel more indulgent without adding extra ingredients.

It’s also a favorite among kids and anyone who appreciates a saucy, flavorful burger. If you’re a fan of the spread, there’s no reason not to ask for extra – it’s free, and it makes a big difference.

13. Well-Done Fries

In-N-Out fries are made from fresh potatoes that are cut and fried on-site, giving them a light, fluffy texture that some people love and others find too soft.

For those who prefer their fries extra crispy, ordering them well-done is the answer. Well-done fries are cooked longer than the standard version, resulting in a golden, crunchy exterior that holds up better to dipping and stays crispy even as they cool.

This customization has become increasingly popular as more people discover that it’s an option, and it’s a favorite among locals who want their fries to have more texture and crunch.

The extra cooking time caramelizes the outside of the fries, adding a slightly sweet, toasted flavor that pairs perfectly with ketchup or the signature spread.

Some people even order their fries extra well-done, which makes them almost chip-like in their crispiness.

Well-done fries take a bit longer to prepare, so they’re best ordered when you’re not in a rush. But the wait is worth it if you’re someone who values texture and crunch in your fries.

It’s a simple request that can completely change your experience, and once you try them, you may never go back to the regular version.