IN-N-OUT BURGER

Well, we've heard about the "best fast burger in town" for some time so decided to check out what they are all about.!!!!!

Harold and Esther Snyder opened the first In-N-Out burger in a suburb of Los Angeles in 1948.  Harry's idea of a drive-thru hamburger stand where customers could order through a two-way speaker box was quite unique. In that era, it was common to see carhops serving those who wanted to order food from their car.

The menu is very simple; burgers, fries and drinks, the same basic menu customers have enjoyed since 1948. Everything is still made fresh to order. There are no microwaves or freezers.  You can observe french fries being hand cut from fresh potatoes & the shakes are made from 'real' ice cream.

While there is always the 'bare-bones' menu available you can apparently add In-N-Out lingo.   Ask for 2x4 (for a double cheesburger) or animal style (extra sauce, grilled onions mixed in your cheese).  AND, hold onto your arteries:   The Animal-Style Fries.  (extra sauce - similar to thousand island dressing; onions and more onions and of course, heaps of melted cheese).

Business leaders in Fisherman's Wharf District opposed every fast food chain except In-N-Out because they wanted to maintain the family-owned, decades old business flavor.  Famous London Chef/Restaurateur Gordon Ramsay ate at In-N-Out while filming Hell's Kitchen in LA and became a favorite fast food place for him (apparently).   Another difference in this fast food chain is the Snyder's religious beliefs.  In the 80's son Rich, started placing discreet references to bible verses on paper products.   Found in small print are the book, chapter and verse number on paper products.   The company also pays their workers higher than minimum wage.

As for the burgers?   Well, we have tried them twice now and they are good burgers.   Didn't feel they were super salty or fatty like others we have had (but, we are not connoiseurs of fast food either).  The fries ... well, not impressed (just dry, nothing to them).  But, it is 'fast food' after all and what do you expect for under $5.00?

Usery Mountain - aka "Scarface Pass" as it is locally called due to the white strip caused by volcanic 'tuff' amidst the granite.

The Wheaton Terriers - Holly, Lilly & Graydie. 

(Owners on the right). . . .

Texas Roadhouse Dinner:   peanuts by the buckets with shells on floors and counters, busy, busy on a sat night and for your birthday (Richard's birthday) - you get the honor of being "back in the saddle" again with everyone yelling "yee-haw."   Steaks are 'cut with your fork' tender and ribs slow roasted all day tender.