My family and I recently took a trip to California and as it was my first time there, I was eager to try the famous "In N Out" food. Even though I generally don't eat meat, a cheeseburger and fries are my ultimate comfort food. I am a regular costumer at Shake Shack in Westport. I don't think I have ever gone to Citi Field (#LGM) without waiting 40 minutes in line for Shake Shack. It's safe to say they are my favorite East Coast burger joint. On my trip I was determined to see which coast has better burgers. It took a few trips to both restaurants to make a decision.

As far as the actual meat goes ...

Shake Shack takes the cake on this one. Their burger patties are melt in your mouth perfection. In N Out was definitely a cut above McDonalds and Burger King, but not up to par with Shake Shack.

Bun and toppings ...

Although I like Shake Shack buns better, I am going to give this one to In N Out because I ordered my burger and fries "animal style" which is life changing stuff. They fry the burger in mustard and top it with some of their Thousand Island spread. My mouth is watering thinking about it. The Thousand Island spread is also delicious. It's like Big Mac sauce's hot older sister. Yum.

Recipe for In N Out sauce here.

Price ...

In N Out easily wins this. You can get a burger and fries for about $4. At Shake Shack, the Cheeseburger alone is double that. Lame.

Fries ...

This one goes to Shake Shack by a landslide. Shake Shack has thick fries with a squiggly shape. In N Out fries are like McDonald's fries except less flavorful.

(James Taylor shares my enthusiasm for thick fries)

Overall,

I enjoy Shake Shack more. Even though the Animal Style burger at In N Out was really good, I would probably get sick of the distinct flavors. In N Out was really tasty and the price is right, but at the end of the day Shake Shack can't be beat.

East Coast you win!