Is there really an In-N-Out in Gainesville, Florida? Well, kinda; at one point, there were several locations. I can confirm there was an In N’ Out, but it was not the celebrated and iconic brand from California.
Over the years, I’ve attempted a deep dive into this topic. Some info is out there, but not much. My best guess is that the Florida version opened in 1962 based on trademark applications and some ads that ran later in the Independent Florida Gator.
The ads listed two locations in Gainesville:
1445 SE Hawthorne Road, Gainesville, FL 32641
204 SW 2nd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601
Chunky’s Grill & Fry Co has been at the 1445 address since 2007. The face of the original IN N’ OUT sign was rebranded with Chunky’s info.
The sign shape is that of the IN N’ OUT Hamburgers (Florida) chef hat.
What is The UNSTINGIES?
IN N OUT HAMBURGERS HOME OF THE UNSTINGIES
The UNSTINGIES means you get more from your small fries, large fries, or onion rings. More of what you like at In N’ Out.
Groupon & Yelp
During a google search, I found Yelp and Groupon pages for In N’ Out Hamburgers. On the Groupon page, there are links to a website and menu. The only problem is the links lead to the Cali burger joint website and the menu of their well-known Secret Menu.
Grilled, seasoned, and served to perfection, Gainesville’s In-N-Out Burger is a prime burger joint located in the city’s Gainesville district.
Groupon’s About In-N-Out Burger
Parking can always be a hassle. That’s why we’ve done half the work for you. Parking is available onsite for our guests.
In-N-Out Burger may cost you a little bit more than some spots, but this deliciousness is fairly-priced (and well worth the few extra bucks). So sink your teeth into a tasty burger from In-N-Out Burger today. Your taste buds will thank you.
Wiki Talk
On Wikipedia, an In-N-Out burger archive discusses the Florida chain. There is some speculation about a relationship with the California brand but no proof. There is one poster that mentions four restaurants in the Gainesville area.
In-N-Out California vs. IN N’ Out Gainesville
At some point, the California-based In-N-Out got wind of its Southern bastard cousin and applied for a couple of Florida Trademarks for the term IN N OUT HAMBURGERS which expired in 2007.
At my Burger Museum
I owned a couple of IN N’ OUT items from the Gainesville restaurant. They were on display at my Burger Museum from 2016-to 2019.
The first appears to have been a drive-thru type sign with an arrow. I had the sign mounted in a lightbox.
The second is a large red t-shirt with the IN N’ OUT logo and catchphrase. Neither are in my possession anymore; a friend of mine purchased them when I closed my museum.
Do you know any info about the IN N’ OUT of Gainesville? I’m dying to fill in any missing gaps.
Some of my cousins worked in In N Out, and the food was so good…from the burgers and wings to the specially-crafted cherry root beer.
I lived in Cali for almost a year, and I was sorely disappointed. It was good, but not The Ville, in-the-hood good!
Went to UF fall of ’73 through mid ’76 and frequented In n Out’s SW 2nd Ave location regularly during that era, as that was their closest to campus. Two convenient drive through lanes, huge fully dressed juicy burgers made to order plus thick yummy shakes that had the consistency of real ice cream. Don’t recall their fries, as they weren’t a priority to us back then. Staff was primarily some cool African American dudes in crisp white uniforms who took your order and also did the cooking. Best quality and value in town at that time compared to McDonalds and Burger King which were the only other major fast food burger options back then. Very efficient system and no long waits ever. Never had California In n Out so cannot compare it to that having never experienced their food.
I attended UF in the late 60s to mid 70s and frequently went to the In & Out on 2nd Avenue. Great burgers with equally great memories. I now live in California and when I first spotted an In & Out here I hoped it was the same from when I lived in Gainesville, but was sadly disappointed!
ditto to that. very disappointed