Learn the 'Ins and Outs' of this California institution.

If you live in California and have never been to In-N-Out Burger, you're not actually living in California. More than the Golden Gate Bridge, or Pebble Beach this fast food joint has become an icon in this area. If you frequent In-N-Out, you know why, but if you haven't, a trip there should move to the very top of your to-do list.

Newcomers may be shocked by the brevity of the menu. Burgers and fries are about the extent of it. They offer a hamburger, a cheeseburger or a their infamous double-double (two patties, two slices of cheese). Their actual potato fries are one size fits all, and their three milkshake varieties (chocolate, strawberry and vanilla) are proportioned the same. Each burger is topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, onions (optional) and a tasty special sauce. It makes decisions quite easy. Or so you thought...

Turns out that In-N-Out harbors a "secret" menu that even some seasoned professional burger mavens don't know about. Beginners and experts alike should feel free to venture away from the posted menu and request any of the following variations.

Double Meat - Same as the double-double, but sans the double cheese.

3x3 - Three patties, three slices of cheese and the rest of the standard topping. Reserved for the famished and those with inordinately large mouths.

4x4 - Four patties, four cheese slices served in standard form. Not excellent date fare. It's likely to end up spattering places other than your mouth.

Grilled Cheese - For you vegetarians out there, don't decline your next In-N-Out invite. You can have your burger without the burden of the burger. They keep everything on there but the meat.

Protein Style - In-N-Out is Atkins friendly. Order your burger protein style and you'll get it in a lettuce wrap in lieu of the carb filled bun.

Animal Style - You can get any of In-N-Out's variations done animal style, which simply means that they cook your beef patty(s) in mustard for more flavor and top the condiments with a pickle, extra sauce and a hearty helping of grilled onions. This is as close to a gourmet burger as you'll get!

The next time you trek down to your local branch, mix it up a bit. Use the insider lingo and have yourself a delightful and memorable meal for less than $10. You won't regret it.

â€" Written by Michelle Murphy