Ridgefield Debut Sparks Anticipation
When In-N-Out Burger opened its Ridgefield, Washington, location last month, fans of the California-based chain flocked to experience its cult-favorite menu. While Ridgefield marked the brand’s first step into Washington, it also served as the closest location yet for Portland-area residents—if they’re willing to make the 30-minute drive north.
That debut reignited a long-standing question: When will Portlanders finally get their own In-N-Out?
Permits Filed in Hillsboro
The answer may be taking shape in Hillsboro. According to city records, In-N-Out has applied for eight permits to build a restaurant at 11170 N.E. Evergreen Parkway in the Tanasbourne Town Center. As of Tuesday, five of those permits had already been approved.
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The site was formerly home to a Barnes & Noble bookstore, which has now been demolished. Behind construction fencing, excavators have cleared the space, preparing the lot for what could soon become the first In-N-Out Burger location within a short drive of Portland’s core.
Company representatives have previously stated that once construction begins, new restaurants typically take around nine months to complete.
Expanding Footprint in the Metro Area
Hillsboro is not the only site under consideration. In-N-Out has been steadily eyeing multiple spots across the Portland metro area:
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Tualatin: In 2018, the company purchased the former Village Inn site across from Bridgeport Village for $3.3 million. However, its application to build a drive-through expired in 2020 without a decision.
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Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway: After an initial denial, Washington County approved an application in 2024 to build a restaurant at 10565 S.W. Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway.
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Vancouver, Wash.: In-N-Out has proposed redeveloping a former Rite Aid at 13511 S.E. Third Way.
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Portland Proper: In January, officials filed paperwork to open a drive-through at 11270 N.E. Holman Street, near Portland International Airport. This would mark the chain’s first restaurant inside Portland city limits.
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Gresham: In February, a pre-application was filed to convert a defunct Shari’s restaurant at 2015 N.E. Burnside Road, close to U.S. 26.
Together, these projects highlight a clear intent by In-N-Out to expand strategically throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.
What Hillsboro Could Mean
If the Hillsboro permits continue to move forward, the Evergreen Parkway site may well become the chain’s first operational restaurant in the Portland metro. Located near New Seasons Market in a busy retail hub, the location offers visibility, access, and steady traffic flow—all qualities that fit In-N-Out’s expansion model.
For burger fans, that would mean not having to cross the Columbia River to satisfy their cravings for Double-Doubles and Animal-Style fries. For the company, it would mark a milestone in extending its Northwest presence.
A Pattern of Careful Growth
Unlike many fast-food brands, In-N-Out has historically favored slow and deliberate growth. Each location is owned and operated by the company itself, rather than franchised. That approach ensures quality control but means expansion takes time.
The company’s arrival in Oregon has been anticipated for years, with every permit filing drawing intense attention from fans and local media. The Ridgefield opening only fueled speculation about which Oregon site might open first.
Looking Ahead
With demolition complete in Hillsboro and permits steadily advancing, residents may not have to wait much longer for their first taste of In-N-Out without a border crossing. If construction follows the company’s typical nine-month timeline, the Hillsboro location could welcome customers by late 2025.
Meanwhile, projects in Beaverton, Gresham, and near Portland International Airport suggest that once the first Oregon restaurant opens, others could quickly follow, turning the Portland metro into one of the company’s next big markets.
For now, eager fans will have to watch the fencing around the former Barnes & Noble lot and wait for the iconic red-and-yellow signage to make its debut.
