In 2018, In-N-Out Burger remained a West Coast favorite for customers tracking value menu quality and corporate pricing strategy. This overview captures core menu price points and positioning during that period, with a focus on key items and format consistency.
Price transparency and format clarity helped the brand stand out against larger chains, so understanding the 2018 menu pricing structure matters for both casual diners and comparison analysts.
| Item | 2018 Price (USD) | Protein | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double-Double | $2.85 | Two patties | Burger |
| Protein Style | $2.35 | Two patties | Burger |
| Animal Style Fries | $2.35 | Beef patty (optional) | Side |
| Shake (Small) | $2.35 | Milk-based | Drink |
| Coffee (Hot) | $1.00 | None | Beverage |
Menu Structure and Item Categories 2018
In-N-Out maintained a streamlined but deep menu in 2018, organized around burgers, fries, shakes, and fountain drinks. Hidden items like Protein Style and Animal Style fries showcased customization without expanding printed menus, helping control costs and speed at the counter.
The brand resisted frequent menu expansion, instead focusing on core items executed with high freshness and consistent preparation standards across locations.
Burgers and Sandwich Options
Double-Double and Variants
The Double-Double was the signature burger, featuring two beef patties and two slices of cheese. In 2018, the base price for this item sat around $2.85, representing strong value for a double-patty sandwich.
Protein Style and Lettuce Wrap Options
Protein Style swapped the bun for lettuce, appealing to low-carb diners while keeping the same double-patty configuration, also priced at roughly $2.35 in many regions during 2018.
Sides and Customization Items
Animal Style Fries and Fries
Animal Style Fries added grilled onions, mustard-based sauce, and optionally a beef patty, creating a savory, customizable side for under $2.50. Regular fries remained an affordable staple at around $1.90.
Beverage Choices
Shakes, fountain drinks, and hot coffee formed the drink lineup, with small shakes around $2.35 and coffee as low as $1.00, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for modest beverage pricing in 2018.
Regional Variations and 2018 Trends
While core menu prices were consistent in most markets, slight adjustments occurred in high-cost regions to reflect local operating expenses. The 2018 period highlighted how In-N-Out balanced affordability with wage and real estate pressures.
Takeaways for 2018 Menu Awareness
- Core burgers like the Double-Double were priced under $3, emphasizing value in 2018.
- Customization through Animal Style and Protein Style added little to no cost.
- Beverage prices remained modest, with small shakes near $2.35 and coffee at $1.00.
- Regional adjustments were minimal but present in higher-cost markets.
- Kids' meals provided an affordable family option around $2.95.
FAQ
Reader questions
Were kids meals and junior burgers part of the 2018 menu pricing?
Yes, In-N-Out included a Kids' Meal bundle with a smaller burger, fries, and a drink, typically priced around $2.95 in 2018.
Did drink sizes affect pricing significantly for shakes and sodas in 2018?
Yes, small, medium, and large fountain drinks and shakes were tiered by size in 2018, with larger sizes adding roughly $0.30 to $0.50 to the base price.
How did Animal Style upgrades impact final pricing on burgers and fries in 2018?
Adding grilled onions, spread, or a beef patty under the Animal Style label usually added no extra charge, keeping customization affordable at most locations.
Were breakfast items offered, and how were they priced in 2018?
In 2018, In-N-Out had not yet launched a full breakfast menu, so breakfast pricing remained outside the scope of that year’s menu structure.