In-N-Out Burger has submitted plans for a new restaurant in Ontario, California, that includes a dual-lane drive-thru design intended to address the persistent issue of long customer queues. The proposed location, slated for the southwest corner of Riverside Drive and Archibald Avenue, would replace an existing 18,175-square-foot commercial building with a smaller, 3,887-square-foot In-N-Out restaurant.
The core of the proposal centers on a drive-thru layout featuring two parallel lanes. This configuration, which In-N-Out has implemented at some other locations, aims to increase throughput and reduce wait times, a common challenge for the popular chain known for its cult following. Customers sometimes experience queues that extend into parking lots and onto surrounding roads.
The plan is currently under review by the city's Planning Commission, and no firm opening date or construction timeline has been announced. This proposal arrives as drive-thrus face increasing scrutiny in some California communities. For instance, residents and officials in Culver City have previously expressed concerns about traffic, pollution, and safety related to a proposed In-N-Out drive-thru, contributing to a broader discussion about the compatibility of drive-thrus in busy urban environments.
While a dual-lane system appears to be a straightforward solution for managing long lines, In-N-Out customers have noted that effective utilization can be complicated. Discussions on platforms like Reddit reveal that drivers sometimes hesitate to use a second, seemingly empty lane, even when signs direct them to do so. Some customers report receiving disapproving looks or perceiving it as cutting in line, while others argue it is simply following directional signage. This dynamic has led to situations where employees must encourage customers to spread out to manage the flow, even in locations with multiple lanes.
In-N-Out, founded in 1948, has built a strong brand around a simple menu, fresh ingredients, and a commitment to traditional fast-food preparation methods, emphasizing the absence of heat lamps, freezers, or microwaves. This popularity, however, can result in significant wait times, with reports of drive-thru lines exceeding 20 vehicles and wait times of 30 minutes or more during peak periods. The dual-lane design aims to improve the efficiency of the service without altering the core product.
Local residents have offered mixed reactions to the proposed Ontario location. While some anticipate the addition of another In-N-Out restaurant, others have voiced concerns regarding the potential impact on traffic at the already busy intersection of Riverside Drive and Archibald Avenue. The outcome of the Planning Commission's review will determine if the new drive-thru design proceeds.