I normally don't write reviews on here, but after reading some of these smug, uppity Californians take digs at a Seattle landmark (Richard's as I affectionately call it) and glorify a chain that sold out a long time ago, I had to take a stand. Let me break this down in 4 categories:
Burgers:
Dick's deluxe: Absolutely delicious. The sauce is great and they never skimp on the cheese. Very important, the flavor of the burger is never overpowered by the sauce. Important to note, In-n-out burgers come with onions and tomatoes, while Dick's's doesn't. I enjoy these, but they are not essential parts to my burger. If you feel strongly about these portions of the burger, your feelings may differ from mine.
Double-double: Definitely a good burger, but a little dry (especially compared to the Deluxe) and doesn't have that extra flavor. Yes, I know about animal style, but please be honest, that sauce is gross and overpowers the natural flavor of the burger. Ordering animal style is the easiest way to tell that someone doesn't appreciate a good hamburger.
Fries:
In-n-Out: Not good. I give them credit for being fresh, but they are dry in my opinion. If I am ordering fries, I want them greasy. I honestly strongly prefer McDonald's or BK fries over In-n-out's. Also, one time I tried my fries animal-style. Just don't do it. Worst mistake of my life!
Dick's: I've been all around the country and never have I seen an item of food as greasy and salty as Dick's fries. Advantage Dick's.
Milkshakes:
In-n-out: Pretty standard. I enjoy them, but never really stand out.
Dick's: Freshly made , three flavors of goodness. One problem: only one size! As Marc Jackson would say, "Come on Dick's, you are better than that!" Let me get a large so I don't have to either (a) not get my craving for delicious shake fulfilled or (b) double fist the shakes and become the brunt of numerous jokes. I usually chose (b), but why should it have to come to that?
Ambiance:
In-n-out: Yeah, they have their secret menu which I do like, but that's about it. In-n-out is a huge chain with 221 locations and lacks the old school feel and local charm the Dick's maintains. Also, even when the restaurant is empty, I don't think I've ever gotten my food in less than 10 minutes and often it is 15-20 minutes.
Dick's: As said before, does a much better job sticking to its old school feel and does not have that corporate feel that In-n-out has. I have to be a little critical as Dick's has been raising their prices like the own a gas station. I haven't ran the numbers, but I'm pretty sure they are not just accounting for inflation. Bottom line, the place is getting kind of expensive. Also, they charge for extra ketchup and tartar. As someone who doesn't like to skimp on the ketchup, this is kinda lame.
Conclusion: 4-0 Dick's. When I am in Seattle, I never forget to grab a deluxe, fries, and shake at least once. Don't get me wrong, In-n-out is great and probably the best option here in San Francisco, but Dick's is superior. read more