In-N-Out Burger Opens First Washington Location

For years, burger fans in the Pacific Northwest have watched from afar as their California friends posted photos of palm tree-stamped cups, towering Double-Doubles, and trays of animal style fries. 

But, now, the wait is over. In-N-Out has officially opened its first restaurant in Washington State, and the excitement has been nothing short of electric.

Lines of eager customers stretched around the block during the In-N-Out Washington opening in Ridgefield, a small city about 25 miles north of Portland. 

And the new spot offers everything loyal fans love: burgers grilled to order, fresh-cut fries, and hand-scooped shakes.

Crowds Rush to In-N-Out’s First Washington Opening

You can find the restaurant at 5801 Pioneer Canyon Drive, just off I-5. It’s an easy stop for locals and travelers who are crossing state lines. 

Inside, the restaurant has space for 73 people, while a covered patio has room for another 28. Of course, the drive-thru is already a major attraction, with cars wrapping around the lot as everyone waits their turn.

This new In-N-Out location is run by Clint Ford. He’s been with the company for more than 25 years. About 80 employees were hired for the opening, with starting wages beginning at $18.75 an hour. That’s a pretty nice win for burger lovers and local job seekers alike.

Taking Over the West Coast

Over the past decade, In-N-Out has slowly but steadily moved beyond its California roots. It began in 1948 as a tiny drive-thru in Baldwin Park. Then, it expanded throughout California before making its way to Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Texas, Idaho, and Colorado. With Washington now on the list, the chain is officially planted across most of the West Coast.

The new Ridgefield spot is a big step in the In-N-Out expansion because it brings the brand’s total to nine states. While the company says it has no plans to move eastward just yet, more openings are on the horizon in western states like Arizona and Colorado. 

A Burgers and Fries Frenzy

The energy around the In-N-Out Washington opening has been contagious. Fans camped out early in the morning, some even driving from neighboring states just to be among the first in line. 

To no surprise, social media lit up with photos of freshly unwrapped Double-Doubles, perfectly golden fries, and shakes topped with clouds of white whipped cream.

In-N-Out has built its reputation on a simple, consistent menu and a sense of nostalgia that makes every order feel like a tradition. Whether you stick with the classics or go for a not-so-secret menu option, the first bite will always be worth the wait.

What’s Next for Washington Burger Fans?

With the debut of In-N-Out in Washington, it’s safe to say the Pacific Northwest burger scene has forever been changed. Ridgefield may be the first stop but, if history is any guide, more Washington locations should follow in the coming years. Until then, this single spot is bound to become a road trip destination for fans all across the region.

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