Burger Fans Rejoice: In-N-Out Returns to Manila for Another Pop-Up Event

Manila burger lovers have a reason to rejoice – In-N-Out is back in town.

The cult American burger chain will be having a one-day pop-up sale on Tuesday, October 21, providing locals with another unusual chance to savor its world-acclaimed burgers without traveling abroad.

The pop-up will be held at Neil’s Kitchen at Westgate, Filinvest, Muntinlupa, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fans must put this in their calendars and expect to arrive early, for only limited numbers of In-N-Out’s iconic burgers will be offered.

Three of the company’s most popular items are among what is offered on the special menu: the Double-Double, the Animal-Style Burger, and the Protein-Style Burger. Each is served with the traditional flavors that have turned In-N-Out into a cult phenomenon worldwide.

The Animal-Style Burger boasts a rich, mustard-grilled beef patty that comes topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, extra spread, and grilled onions – all combined in a beautifully toasted bun. For those who want a bit more luxury, the Double-Double serves up double the pleasure with two beef patties, two cheeses, and the same crisp fixings that make In-N-Out so special.

And while the Protein-Style Burger provides a healthy alternative for health-minded eaters by encasing the patty and toppings in fresh lettuce in place of the usual bun – without sacrificing any of the signature taste.

This is In-N-Out’s comeback to Manila following a string of successful pop-up events throughout the last ten years. Since its initial debut in 2013, the company has hosted one-time-only events in different locations throughout Metro Manila, with the last being held in 2022. Every pop-up has drawn long queues of enthusiasts eager to acquire the signature California-style burgers that have influenced generations of food enthusiasts.

Until today, the pop-up is the sole official In-N-Out presence in the country, with the brand yet to officially announce permanent store openings in the Philippines. But each pop-up stokes rumors that the burger behemoth may eventually find roots in Manila, something many Filipino enthusiasts have long been waiting for.

If In-N-Out ever were to open a permanent restaurant in the Philippines, it would be entering a very competitive market. The chain would be up against intense competition from both the international market, such as Shake Shack and Bored & Hungry, and from highly successful domestic burger brands such as 8Cuts Burger Blends and Sweet Ecstasy, which have already convinced Filipino foodies of their own gourmet interpretation of the American burger classic.

However, the buzz over every pop-up event of In-N-Out confirms just how loyal In-N-Out’s supporters are in the Philippines. Without a local store, the brand name still wears legendary status in the hearts of burger lovers, many of whom line up hours ahead just to sample a bite of its world-famous menu.

As the lines again queue up at Neil’s Kitchen, Muntinlupa, one thing is certain – Manila’s affair with In-N-Out will not go away. Whether this pop-up is just another tease or an indication of something more significant to follow still needs to be revealed.