The Fast Food Chain Anthony Bourdain Regarded As Best

Fast food is usually considered pedestrian by culinary experts, but Anthony Bourdain was no ordinary chef. The "No Reservations" star stood out among his peers for being a man of the people and appreciating the simple delicacies in life –- like a good burger at a fair price. Although he probably wasn't scarfing down fast food every day, when he had the chance to visit Los Angeles during his many travels, there was one establishment that he had a particular affinity for, and it was the same one Ina Garten always visits when she's on the West Coast -– In-N-Out Burger. 

In a video released on Reddit, the celebrity chef explains that there are many facets to a perfectly prepared cheeseburger. The significance of the bun can't be overlooked, and complete coverage of the meat within it is essential. When it comes to cheese, an unpretentious slice of American or "cheese-like substance" is imperative, as anything too fancy can ruin the experience of a food that is humble at its core.

In-N-Out Burger hits all these notes, though they do add a creative flare to the dish if requested. Bourdain quips toward the end of the clip that he likes his burger "animal style" before implying he couldn't divulge the secret that makes it so. Contrary to how the esteemed chef makes it sound, there isn't a secret code needed to order your meal the same way he enjoyed it.

Saying you like a burger "animal style" could confuse some into assuming you like to eat it like a ravenous bear, but it actually refers to the way the meat is cooked. An animal style burger is made by grilling the beef patty in mustard. After mustard has fused to the meat, it gets topped with caramelized onions cooked to perfection, along with tangy pickles and extra spread that add a new depth of flavor to this classic meal.

You don't need to know the special knock or cipher a secret code to get your meal animal style; all you have to do is ask. This unique way of preparing a cheeseburger is listed as an option right on In-N-Out Burger's website in its "Not So Secret Menu" section. The term bewildered some Redditers in the comments, having never heard the phrase, but those that had ordered it before thought it was self-explanatory. 

In-N-Out Burger is only available in Western states, and many don't live close enough to one to have ever experienced the savory bliss that is the animal style option.  The good news is if visiting an In-N-Out Burger requires planning a cross-country trip, you can skip the plane ticket and make this dish at home. 

Anthony Bourdain's favorite fast food restaurant in L.A. might only serve eight states along the West Coast, but thankfully, making a burger animal style isn't difficult to accomplish at home. Start by purchasing quality beef with an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio so the patty stays juicy. Prepare the grilled onions, then recreate the sauce by mixing ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar, and relish in a mixing bowl.

Season the beef with salt and pepper before you form the patties so the flavor permeates throughout the meat as opposed to just the outer edges. Preheat a skillet over medium-high on the stove and coat the ground beef with mustard. Cook for three to four minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. A quality bun is crucial, so purchase buns that fit the bill. You can make your own if you're feeling adventurous, but beware — they can take anywhere between 30 minutes and over three hours to make.

Put it all together, and there you have it, a close rendition of the burger the "Parts Unknown" chef held near and dear to his heart. Were he still around today, he would likely appreciate this close approximation with the same passion he showed while sampling unique culinary creations around the world. Hopefully, wherever he is, Anthony Bourdain is sipping on his favorite cocktail while enjoying an animal style In-N-Out Burger special, overlooking the world he left too soon with a smile.