In-N-Out Burger marked its Idaho opening day with an overwhelming response, as the renowned California-based chain's first Idaho store saw customers waiting in line for up to eight hours.
Enthusiastic fans even set up camp outside the new outlet on the eve of its December 12 debut, braving the chilly 30-degree weather to be among the first to enjoy the famous burgers.
In-N-Out Idaho Opening: Long-Awaited Arrival
The drive-thru line at the newly opened In-N-Out Burger was long and started in a nearby dirt lot.
A sign told people they would have to wait in their cars for seven to eight hours, but thousands were patient and waited that long for their food. Also, many people waiting outside wore thick clothes to keep warm.
According to the IdahoNews 6 report on the In-N-Out Burger opening in Meridian, one eager customer shared, "I've eagerly anticipated this for years. I even snapped a photo of the construction still visible a month ago."
Another fan emphasized that he has been waiting for 20 years for the first In-N-Out in Idaho. The customer camped out overnight in the parking lot.
The aroma of burgers and fries permeated the air on Tuesday, with crowds of people and vehicles enduring the chilly weather for a tasty meal. One customer said he found an extra sweatshirt in his car and decided to brave it out.
"I arrived at 8:15 and have been through the line three times already," a devoted fan commented, excitedly planning their next order. Another diner expressed their order enthusiastically, "I'm thinking of getting two four-by-fours and a couple of cheese fries."
The newly established drive-thru at Meridian's In-N-Out is designed to manage extensive car queues, accommodating patrons from both Idaho and California. This In-N-Out in Meridian is just the beginning, with two more locations planned for the vicinity. A Boise outlet is proposed at 140 N Milwaukee St., near Boise Towne Square Mall.
Furthermore, a prospective site in Nampa, at 16225 N. Marketplace Blvd., the former location of TGI Fridays in the Treasure Valley Marketplace, is pending approval.
Ada County Prepared for In-N-Out Traffic
Meanwhile, The Ada County Highway District was prepared for the anticipated heavy traffic tied to the opening of In-N-Out Burger. Drawing lessons from the chain's 2020 launch in Aurora, Colorado, where drive-thru lines exceeded 12 hours, the district is proactive in its approach.
Rachel Bjornestad, an ACHD spokesperson, confirmed their readiness, including discussions with the diner and the Idaho Transportation Department. ACHD will handle traffic signal timing, a standard practice for significant events, and can make remote adjustments if needed.
Despite these efforts, Bjornestad acknowledged that traffic is inevitable, pointing out that while signal timing is vital, the responsibility for overall management lies with the restaurant and The Village.
Moreover, Valene Henriquez, a 23-year veteran with In-N-Out, is the manager of the new Meridian location. The restaurant employed around 80 staff members, offering a wage of $17.50 per hour. The facility includes a single drive-thru lane, seating for 84 guests inside, and a covered outdoor area with space for 32.
The store operates daily from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., extending its hours until 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays to cater to its customers.
