Order 69: The Number That Broke In-N-Out
A deep dive investigation into the viral chaos that led to the quiet retirement of In-N-Out's most infamous order number.
I always thought In-N-Out was immune to the whims of cancel culture. A bastion of simplicity in a world obsessed with reinvention. But then, I heard about something peculiar: order number 69 was missing from their receipts. I dismissed it as a coincidence the first time I saw it, but curiosity got the better of me.
Digging deeper, I discovered that this wasn't a recent change. Over a decade ago, In-N-Out quietly retired the number 69 from their order system. The reason? The number had become a source of juvenile humor among patrons, leading to disruptions in the otherwise orderly flow of the restaurant. Employees recounted instances where calling out "Order 69" would elicit laughter, inappropriate comments, or even pranks. In an establishment that prides itself on efficiency and a family-friendly atmosphere, this became a recurring issue.
In fact, this YouTube video captures such a moment, showing the restaurant erupting in chaos when "Order 69" is called. This incident exemplifies why In-N-Out decided to skip the number altogether.
In-N-Out's decision to retire order number 69 isn't about censorship or political correctness. It's about preserving the sanctity of that mouthwatering moment when you're handed a Double-Double—two mustard-grilled patties, melted American cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, grilled onions, and that signature spread, all nestled between toasted buns. It's a burger so perfectly engineered that even Anthony Bourdain called it his favorite restaurant in Los Angeles.
So, thank you, In-N-Out, for eliminating the distractions. Now, I can savor my burger in peace, enveloped in the aroma of grilled perfection, without the chorus of giggles that once accompanied a simple number.