Sat Jan 17 23:20:00 UTC 2026: # Padma Lakshmi’s Fast-Food Choice Sparks Debate Among Food Enthusiasts
The Story:
Padma Lakshmi, renowned former host of Top Chef, has publicly declared In-N-Out Burger as her favorite fast-food restaurant. This endorsement, highlighted in a May 29, 2023, Sporked article written by Sporked Staff and updated by Jay Wilson on January 2, 2026, and again on January 6, 2026, joins a chorus of celebrity chef approvals, including those of Gordon Ramsay and Guy Fieri. However, Lakshmi’s specific order—a burger with no onions and extra pickles—has sparked some debate among fast-food purists, as revealed in a related headline from January 17, 2026.
Key Points:
* Padma Lakshmi names In-N-Out Burger as her favorite fast-food chain.
* Lakshmi prefers her In-N-Out burger without onions and with extra pickles, a departure from standard orders.
* Gordon Ramsay favors a Double-Double, Animal Style, at In-N-Out.
* Guy Fieri also considers In-N-Out his favorite fast-food restaurant.
* The original Sporked article was published in May 2023 but was updated twice in January 2026.
Key Takeaways:
* Celebrity endorsements continue to significantly impact consumer perception of food brands.
* Even within established chains, personalized orders can become points of interest and discussion.
* In-N-Out’s consistent quality and appeal have solidified its status as a favorite among both culinary professionals and the general public.
* The debate surrounding Lakshmi’s specific order highlights the subjective nature of taste and preferences.
First Piper 