In-N-Out vs. Shake Shack
I was already excited to spend the weekend in Austin with one of my best friends. My excitement grew when I realized that I had the opportunity for the taste-test of my dreams: In-N-Out vs. Shake Shack.
Although it had been a long time since I’d had In-N-Out, I had eaten at both places. A few months ago a poll piqued my interest. Which one is really better? When it comes to burger joints, Texas is pretty much where East meets West. This was one of the few places I could do a taste test. My rules:
- I would eat them back-to-back.
- I would eat them immediately in the restaurant.
- Whatever I ordered at one I would get at the other.
- Only the most classic cheeseburger.
- Split the burger so I wouldn’t get too full for the other.
With these rules in mind we set off to find out which one would be the best. I have rated individual criteria from one through ten and also have an overall impression. At both restaurants I had a cheeseburger, fries, and a shake.
In-N-Out
At In-N-Out the burger was definitely made with super fresh ingredients and typical veggies. The sauce was good but didn’t taste particularly different. Everything was great, but still standard.
Patty – 6
Bun – 6
Sauce – 5
Vegetables – 7
Cheese – 6
Shake thickness – 6
Shake taste – 5
Fries – 6
Overall Freshness – 9
SCORE – 56
Shake Shack
Shake Shack has a taste that exudes quality. The meat is seasoned well and the bun is a roll. A really yummy roll. Shake Shack stands out to me because I could easily be happy eating the individual components alone because they are that good. Also, you can best a custard-based shake or crinkle cut fries.
Patty – 9
Bun – 10
Sauce – 8
Vegetables – 7
Cheese – 7
Shake thickness – 9
Shake taste – 10
Fries – 9
Overall Freshness – 10
SCORE – 79
In-N-Out can be the king of fast food burgers but Shake Shack is a step above. Literally on a different level because it’s fast casual doing. Shake Shack was the clear winner, which is good for me because it’s coming to The Lou soon.
