In-N-Out Burger to Open a One-Day Pop-Up in Tokyo

Burger enthusiasts in Tokyo have reason to celebrate as the iconic American burger chain In-N-Out is set to open a one-day pop-up this weekend. The event, scheduled for June 15, will take place at Ride Tennozu, a waterside restaurant located on Tennozu Isle (Tennozu Central Tower Canal Garden 1F, 2-2-24 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa).

The California-based burger chain, renowned for its fresh ingredients and secret menu items, announced the pop-up via a sponsored post on its Facebook account.

This marks the return of In-N-Out’s elusive Tokyo pop-ups, which have become an annual tradition, much to the delight of local fans.

Last year’s pop-up featured a limited menu with three burger options: the classic Double-Double, the Protein-Style burger (a burger without buns), and the famous Animal-Style burger. The Animal-Style burger, an off-menu favorite, includes meat patties fried with mustard, pickles, grilled onions, and extra Thousand Island sauce. This year’s menu remains under wraps, adding to the anticipation.

The event will run from 10 am to 4 pm, but if history is any indicator, fans should arrive early. Last year’s pop-up saw lines stretching for hours, with some attendees reporting wait times of up to four hours. The sheer demand often means the burgers sell out quickly, sometimes even before the official opening time.

In-N-Out’s pop-ups in Tokyo serve multiple purposes. Beyond giving Japanese fans a taste of its famous burgers, the events help protect the chain’s trademark in the region. According to intellectual property laws in Japan and other parts of Asia, maintaining a presence in the market is crucial for trademark protection.

Despite the brand’s popularity, In-N-Out remains a family-owned business known for its commitment to quality over rapid expansion. The chain heavily regulates its suppliers to ensure the freshness and quality of its ingredients, which poses a challenge for establishing permanent locations far from its base on the U.S. West Coast.

While some fans question why In-N-Out doesn’t open a permanent location in Japan, the company’s emphasis on quality control and its cautious approach to expansion suggest that such a move might not be imminent.

For those planning to attend this weekend’s event, the address in Japanese for easier navigation is 東京都品川区東品川2-2-24. Given the expected turnout, attendees are advised to arrive early and prepare for a potentially long wait.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a first-timer, the In-N-Out pop-up is a unique opportunity to experience a slice of California burger culture right in the heart of Tokyo. Enjoy it while it lasts!