Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

As a recent transplant to CA, I had only previously heard of In N Out through friends. Songs of how great the burgers are and how awesome the fries are made me wish I had not been born in OH. When I moved to the SF bay area, I was introduced to them finally.

My first taste wasn't that great, partially due to it being a cold night and the burger (not knowing any better, I bought a single) had lost its flavor by the time I ate it. The experience I had been hoping for was a huge letdown. I decided to try them again and ordered a 3x3 animal style. This had changed my opinion entirely. I'm now a convert.

However, that isn't to say it's the best burger I've had. I still find myself going back to BK for a double cheeseburger or Carls Jr Double Western (another guilty pleasure). Each big-chain burger joint has it's own flair and tends to have that 1 item that appeals to your taste buds.

When you leave the smaller places behind, the feeling of nostalgia overcomes you when you think of things you used to eat. I have fond memories of Mr Hero in Cleveland (their Romanburger is habit-forming) or even old-time favorites like White Castle (frozen isn't the same no matter what anybody who has never ordered a sack tells you). I guess I'd have the same to say about Cali if I ever had to leave.

Of course, I still say homemade is the best. I make a peppered burger that is out of this world and my wife makes a killer turkey/apple/bacon one. But those things can always be made and can't replace the late-night cravings of a greasy, sloppy and oh-so-bad-for-you-but-oh-so-good fast food burger.

Just my $0.02.

A nice, warm bowl of beef or chicken curry (Japanese-style) cooked with just the right amount of veggies. It's not quite soup but I purposely thin it out so that it has that soupy feel to it. Warms you up and sticks with you all day plus leaves your house smelling wonderful for days. :)