Those in search of an upscale, fancy restaurant may turn their noses at a fast food joint. However, if one cares to examine one drive-through a little closer, they might just discover a quick fix and a satisfying meal all in one.

In-N-Out, the famous fast-food outlet located just outside of River Park, is a perennial favorite for parents harassed by hungry children. There is a reason that the drive-through is always packed and customers nearly break out in fist fights to find a table inside. The area is clean, parents like the prices and the service is quick.

In-N-Out is a lifesaver on busy weekends, and though it may become stuffy during the summer due to the thick atmosphere, the groups of teenagers and families alike never falter. A testament to the fast food’s high quality lies in the fact that the servers never find a break in customers.

I hit In-N-Out like most customers, with an empty stomach and a craving for a diner-style meal of burgers and fries. The menu is simple, with few choices. However, do not let the small menu deter you; why adjust perfection? Burgers and fries can be prepared in different fashions, but customers will either love or hate this burger hotspot.

Unique to the West Coast, In-N-Out boasts 213 locations in California, Arizona and Nevada. The eatery first opened in Baldwin Park, CA, in 1948, by Harry and Esther Snyder. The family still remains in control of their restaurant, which continues to expand today.

In-N-Out takes you back to the 50s, when diners were the local hangout. White, red, and yellow flavor the interior while pictures of old diners color the walls. The 50s tunes added to the illusion of poodle skirts and drive-ins, though the music was drowned out by the noise of the customers.

While there are no chicken salads or onion rings commonly found in other fast food restaurants, the menu remains simple, with only burgers, fries, drinks and the occasional shake. While I have heard only positive reviews of the animal-style fries (found on a secret menu that also offers a cheese sandwich), I went classic and ordered a number two for around $5. The plate included a cheeseburger, fries, and a Coca-Cola. I ordered extra special sauce, the condiment unique to In-N-Out personally described as ketchup with a kick.

The French fries are always freshly made. Instead of packing frozen fries across the state, In-N-Out peals, cuts, and fries their sides to crunchy perfection.

The prices are in the normal fast-food range, with drinks for around $2, the burgers anywhere from $3-$5, and fries for around $2. Any customer can literally come “in and out” with only a few dollars missing from their wallet.

The In-N-Out closest to campus is located at 8010 N. Blackstone Ave., a perfect location for hungry masses fresh out of the latest blockbuster at the movie theater. In-N-Out also stands at three other locations in the Fresno-Clovis area. The burger supplier is open from 10:30 A.M.-1 A.M. daily.

For more lunchtime review options, visit the Jan. 24, article, Deli Delicious refines palate.