Flying Dutchman In-N-Out: What It Is & How to Order This Secret Menu Item
Few fast-food chains command the cult-like loyalty of In-N-Out Burger. With roots tracing back to 1948 in Baldwin Park, California, In-N-Out has embedded itself in West Coast culture through a fanatical focus on fresh ingredients and simple, high-quality burgers. Yet, lurking beneath the minimalist menu is a legendary “secret menu”—a creative playground for loyalists and adventurous eaters alike. Among its most mythic offerings is the Flying Dutchman, a bunless curiosity that’s both a carnivore’s dream and a wink to the brand’s endless customization ethos.
What Is the Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out?
The Flying Dutchman is as minimalist as a cheeseburger gets: two beef patties, two slices of perfectly melted American cheese—no bun, no lettuce, no onions, just pure, unadorned indulgence. It occupies a singular niche between a protein-packed snack and a low-carb meal, loved particularly by keto diet enthusiasts and those fascinated by In-N-Out’s off-menu possibilities.
Introduced decades ago, the Flying Dutchman wasn’t born from marketing meetings or culinary brainstorms; it emerged organically, reputedly a favorite of car enthusiasts and In-N-Out’s founders. Its stark simplicity is both its charm and its talking point: unwrapping a Flying Dutchman is a moment of grinning surprise, whether for first-timers or seasoned insiders.
“The Flying Dutchman exemplifies In-N-Out’s willingness to meet their loyal customers exactly where they are—no matter how unconventional the request may seem,” notes fast food industry analyst Jennifer Polk. “It’s menu minimalism at its flavorful best.”
Why the Flying Dutchman Commands a Devoted Following
Embracing Minimalism and Ingredient Quality
The enduring appeal of the Flying Dutchman can largely be traced to its bold simplicity. By stripping away condiments and buns, In-N-Out spotlights the quality and freshness of its signature beef and cheese—two foundational elements that set the brand apart from competitors relying on frozen or processed fare.
This transparency resonates in an era increasingly wary of artificial additives. Food trend reports in recent years highlight a marked consumer shift toward ingredient double-checking and “clean label” eating, spaces where the Flying Dutchman naturally fits.
A Haven for Special Diets
For many, the Flying Dutchman is more than a novelty. Low-carb and keto dieters, who face slim pickings at most fast-food chains, have embraced the bunless, carb-free construction. In online communities such as Reddit’s r/keto, jubilant threads celebrate the Flying Dutchman as both a practical meal option and a badge of In-N-Out savvy.
Social Media and Word-of-Mouth Hype
The secret menu’s reputation, fueled by enthusiastic Instagram posts and YouTube reviews, further catapults items like the Flying Dutchman into internet stardom. Memes and viral TikToks push “secret” creations—even menu veterans might discover something new.
How to Order a Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out
Ordering this infamous item is refreshingly simple. Just say, “I’d like a Flying Dutchman, please,” at the counter or drive-thru. True to In-N-Out’s customer-focused service, there’s no need for code words or awkward explanations; staff are well-versed in secret menu orders.
Customizing Your Flying Dutchman
The basic Flying Dutchman is just the beginning. Fans frequently ask for modifications, resulting in off-menu customizations, including:
- Add Grilled Onions: A savory punch for those wanting a little extra flavor.
- Chopped Chili Peppers: For a spicy, tangy bite.
- “Animal Style” Flying Dutchman: This adds mustard-cooked patties, pickles, grilled onions, and spread—the same treatment as the chain’s classic “animal style” burger, albeit without the bun.
- Lettuce Wrap: Occasionally, some opt for lettuce leaves to sandwich the patties, mimicking the “protein style” burger.
Some locations, particularly crowded urban stores, may not honor complex customizations during peak hours, but most staff are happy to accommodate.
Pricing and Nutrition
While prices vary by region, the Flying Dutchman is typically one of the most affordable items on (or off) the menu, consistently costing less than fully assembled burgers. Nutritional values are straightforward: it’s high in protein and fat, with virtually no carbohydrates. This simplicity appeals to anyone monitoring macros or food sensitivities.
The Broader Phenomenon: In-N-Out’s Secret Menu
The Flying Dutchman is far from alone in the pantheon of secret menu items. In-N-Out’s unique relationship with its regulars means that the “unofficial menu” often rivals, even eclipses, the original board in creativity.
Other Notorious Secret Menu Stars
- Animal Style Fries: Topped with cheese, In-N-Out’s famed spread, and grilled onions.
- Protein Style Burger: Swapping a bun for crisp lettuce leaves.
- 3×3 and 4×4 Burgers: For those who dare, three or four patties and slices of cheese.
Such options have inspired fast-food competitors, with many (like McDonald’s or Shake Shack) now embracing their own “secret menu” options, hoping to cultivate the same cult status.
Real-World Examples: Who Orders the Flying Dutchman?
It’s often gearheads and road trippers—those with an appetite for both adventure and a no-frills meal—who shine a spotlight on this unique item. Online, the Flying Dutchman is a favorite subject for competitive eaters recording calorie-challenge videos, as well as fitness influencers searching for low-carb fast food. Even Silicon Valley titans have referenced it as a go-to order during late-night hackathons.
“There’s something almost rebellious about ordering a Flying Dutchman,” foodie YouTuber Mark Wiens observed in a viral review. “It’s a test of how well you know In-N-Out, but it’s also just really, really tasty.”
Conclusion: Why Try the Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out?
The Flying Dutchman isn’t just a quirky relic of In-N-Out’s secret menu; it embodies the best of the brand’s willingness to let customers steer their dining experience. Whether you’re in search of a high-protein, low-carb meal or just curious about the mythology, the Flying Dutchman has earned its place as a beloved West Coast culinary secret. For food explorers and purists alike, it’s a must-try icon that proves less is sometimes more.
FAQs
What exactly is on a Flying Dutchman from In-N-Out?
It’s simply two beef patties and two slices of melted cheese, with no bun or condiments—just pure meat and cheese.
Is the Flying Dutchman suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes, it’s a popular choice among those following low-carb or ketogenic diets due to its lack of bread and carbohydrates.
Can I customize a Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out?
Most locations will let you add extras like grilled onions, chili peppers, or even lettuce wraps for additional crunch and flavor.
How do you order a Flying Dutchman at In-N-Out?
Just ask directly for a “Flying Dutchman” at the register or drive-thru; staff are familiar with secret menu orders.
Are there other secret menu items like the Flying Dutchman?
Absolutely—options like Animal Style Fries, Protein Style burgers, and “3×3” or “4×4” burgers are all popular secret menu choices.
Why is it called the Flying Dutchman?
The naming is rooted in In-N-Out’s early history, possibly as a playful reference among staff or regulars, though official explanations are scarce. The mystique is part of its enduring charm.
