Padma Lakshmi, the acclaimed author, model, and former long-time host of Bravo's Top Chef, has built a formidable career around discerning good food from the mediocre. Having judged hundreds of dishes over 20 seasons, her palate is highly respected in culinary circles. So, when a figure of her stature reveals a preference for a specific fast-food chain, the revelation is noteworthy, especially when that choice involves a beloved West Coast institution.
For many, the idea of a world-renowned culinary expert endorsing fast food might seem contradictory. However, Lakshmi has consistently signaled her appreciation for accessible, high-quality quick bites. Her favored destination for a speedy burger fix? None other than In-N-Out Burger, the perennial champion of California cuisine that commands near-cult status among food lovers.
The Endorsement of an Icon
Lakshmi’s affinity for In-N-Out isn't a fleeting fancy; it's a documented, long-standing relationship. Evidence of this loyalty spans several years and social media platforms. Back in 2015, she was photographed clutching an In-N-Out burger at an Emmy Awards after-party, even tagging the chain in her Instagram post—a clear sign of endorsement to her millions of followers. More recently, upon landing in Los Angeles, a common ritual for many West Coast visitors and residents alike, she declared In-N-Out as her essential first stop.
This admiration was solidified in a 2022 interview where she explicitly named the chain as her go-to when in L.A. While she also gave a nod to local favorite Astro Burger, praising its vegetarian Gardenburger option, the spotlight remains firmly on her In-N-Out habits. It’s a testament to the chain’s ability to capture the attention of even the most sophisticated eaters.
An Unconventional Off-Menu Order
While many In-N-Out enthusiasts flock to the famous “Animal Style” customization—a modification involving extra spread, grilled onions, and mustard-cooked patties—Lakshmi opts for a different, slightly more subtle deviation from the standard menu. Purists might even find her choice slightly controversial, as it involves removing a staple ingredient rather than adding complex extras.
Padma Lakshmi orders her In-N-Out burger:
- No Onions: Standard In-N-Out burgers come with raw onions by default. Lakshmi prefers them omitted entirely.
- Extra Pickles: This is where her order becomes truly unique. Pickles are not a standard component on In-N-Out’s core burgers (though they are available on the side or via specific customization). Lakshmi specifically requests an extra helping of these tangy slices, which they happily add upon request.
This customization speaks volumes about her flavor profile preferences. By removing the sharp bite of raw onion and emphasizing the briny crunch of extra pickles, she crafts a burger experience that leans into acidity and texture, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese. It’s a thoughtful modification that enhances the classic simplicity of the chain’s offerings.
The In-N-Out Culinary Consensus
Lakshmi is far from alone in her high praise for the burger joint. The fact that her preferred fast-food spot is also lauded by other major figures only strengthens its reputation as a benchmark for quality in the quick-service industry. The shared love for In-N-Out among culinary titans suggests that the chain delivers a consistently excellent product, regardless of the diner's background.
Fellow Foodie Favorites
Perhaps the most notable contemporary who shares Lakshmi’s fast-food affection is celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. Known globally for his exacting standards, Ramsay has also publicly named In-N-Out as his favorite fast-food restaurant. Interestingly, Ramsay sticks to a more traditional, albeit secret-menu, approach: the Double-Double, Animal Style. This juxtaposition—Ramsay going fully loaded with the secret menu, and Lakshmi opting for a minimalist, pickle-forward customization—highlights the versatility and appeal of the In-N-Out foundation.
Adding another titan to the list, Guy Fieri, the Mayor of Flavortown, has also championed In-N-Out. With these three powerful voices—Lakshmi, Ramsay, and Fieri—all aligning on this specific West Coast establishment, In-N-Out transcends mere regional popularity to become a recognized standard in American fast-food excellence. For those looking to emulate a culinary expert's cheat meal, Padma Lakshmi’s order—no onions, extra pickles—offers a refreshing and surprisingly nuanced take on the classic burger experience.
As audiences continue to seek authentic insights into the eating habits of public figures, Lakshmi’s continued dedication to her unique In-N-Out order provides a relatable, yet slightly elevated, glimpse into the life of a celebrated food personality. It’s a reminder that even at the pinnacle of the food world, sometimes, the best meal is the one that’s been perfected over decades of revisits.
