Whataburger has been a beloved Texas institution for over 70 years. Since its founding in Corpus Christi in 1950, the fast food chain has become deeply ingrained in Texan culture and cuisine. The restaurant’s iconic orange-and-white striped buildings and made-to-order burgers have made it a cherished brand across the Lone Star State and beyond.
Throughout its history, Whataburger has achieved numerous milestones and accolades. From its humble beginnings as a single burger stand to being officially recognized as a “Texas Treasure” by the state legislature, the company has experienced significant growth and evolution. This article explores 10 key moments that have shaped Whataburger’s legacy in Texas over the past seven decades.
1) The Founding of Whataburger in 1950 by Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton
Whataburger’s journey began on August 8, 1950, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton joined forces to establish the first Whataburger restaurant, driven by a shared vision for a superior hamburger experience.
The founders aimed to create a burger that required two hands to hold and left customers exclaiming, “What a burger!” This ambitious goal set the stage for Whataburger’s future success and distinctive brand identity.
Dobson and Burton’s partnership focused on quality and size, setting their burgers apart from competitors. In June 1950, Dobson secured the trademark for the Whataburger name, solidifying the brand’s foundation.
The original Whataburger restaurant quickly gained popularity among local residents. Its success paved the way for expansion, with Paul Burton going on to operate a Whataburger in San Antonio until his passing in 1970.
Harmon Dobson’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the Whataburger concept played a crucial role in the company’s growth. His leadership would guide the brand through its early years and set the stage for its future as a beloved Texas institution.
2) Introduction of the Five-Inch Bun in 1951
Whataburger’s founder, Harmon Dobson, revolutionized the fast-food industry with the introduction of the five-inch bun in 1951. This innovative move set Whataburger apart from its competitors, who were serving burgers on standard 2.5-inch buns.
Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big that customers would exclaim “What a burger!” when they saw it. To achieve this, he doubled the size of the typical burger patty to a quarter pound of beef.
Finding a bakery capable of producing such large buns proved challenging. Undeterred, Dobson commissioned a company to custom-design 15 pans specifically for creating 5-inch buns.
The oversized bun became a signature element of Whataburger’s offerings. It allowed for a more substantial burger with ample space for toppings, including fresh lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and onions.
This bold move helped establish Whataburger as a unique presence in the Texas fast-food landscape. The larger bun and patty combination became a defining feature of the brand, contributing to its growing popularity and expansion.
3) First Franchise Opened in 1953 in Alice, Texas
Whataburger’s expansion took a significant leap in 1953 when Joe Andrews Sr. became the company’s first franchisee. He opened Whataburger #5 at 1242 E Main St in Alice, Texas on February 11, 1953.
This milestone marked the beginning of Whataburger’s franchise system, allowing the brand to grow beyond its original Corpus Christi location. The Alice restaurant was the first Whataburger not directly operated by founder Harmon Dobson.
Andrews and his team, known as Whataburger of Alice, demonstrated the potential of the franchise model. Their success paved the way for future franchisees and the company’s expansion across Texas and beyond.
The Alice location holds a special place in Whataburger history. As of 2025, it has been in operation for over 70 years, making it the longest-running franchisee in the Whataburger system.
This early franchise success helped set the stage for Whataburger’s rapid growth throughout the 1950s and beyond. It proved that the Whataburger concept could thrive under different ownership while maintaining its quality and appeal.
4) The Creation of the Iconic A-Frame Restaurant Design in 1961
In 1961, Whataburger introduced its now-famous A-Frame restaurant design. The first of these distinctive structures opened in Odessa, Texas, marking the company’s 24th location.
The A-Frame design featured a towering 30-foot-high structure with a striking orange and white color scheme. This eye-catching architecture was intended to make Whataburger restaurants easily visible from a distance.
The unique design quickly became a hallmark of the fast-food chain’s visual identity. It helped Whataburger stand out in an increasingly competitive market and played a significant role in the company’s expansion.
By 1963, Whataburger had grown to 26 locations across multiple states, including Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona. The A-Frame design became synonymous with the brand’s growth and success.
These iconic buildings not only served as restaurants but also as beacons for hungry customers. The distinctive orange and white A-Frame silhouette became a recognizable symbol of Whataburger’s presence in communities throughout the Southern United States.
5) Debut of the Jalapeño and Cheese Whataburger in 1972
In 1972, Whataburger introduced a spicy new addition to its menu: the Jalapeño and Cheese Whataburger. This innovative offering combined the chain’s signature beef patty with melted cheese and zesty jalapeño peppers.
The debut of this sandwich marked a significant milestone in Whataburger’s history. It demonstrated the company’s willingness to experiment with bold flavors and cater to Texan taste preferences.
The Jalapeño and Cheese Whataburger quickly gained popularity among customers seeking a kick of heat with their meal. Its success paved the way for future spicy menu items and flavor combinations.
This new burger variant also helped solidify Whataburger’s reputation as a distinctly Texan brand. By incorporating jalapeños, a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, the chain further embraced its roots and local culinary traditions.
The introduction of the Jalapeño and Cheese Whataburger coincided with a period of significant growth for the company. By 1972, Whataburger had expanded to 100 stores, indicating its rising popularity across Texas and neighboring states.
6) Whataburger’s First TV Commercial Airs in 1979
Whataburger took a significant step in its marketing efforts in 1979 by airing its first television commercial. This marked a new era for the Texas-based burger chain as it expanded its reach beyond word-of-mouth and local advertising.
The commercial showcased Whataburger’s signature large burgers and emphasized their made-to-order approach. It aimed to capture the attention of a wider audience and differentiate the brand from other fast-food competitors.
1979 was also the year Whataburger introduced its breakfast menu, making the timing of the TV commercial particularly strategic. The advertisement likely highlighted both the classic burgers and the new breakfast offerings, appealing to customers throughout the day.
By leveraging television as a medium, Whataburger was able to visually communicate its brand identity and core values to potential customers across its operating regions. This move helped solidify Whataburger’s position as a growing player in the fast-food industry.
The airing of the first TV commercial represented Whataburger’s commitment to growth and its ambition to become a household name beyond its Texas roots.
7) Introduction of Breakfast Menu in 1982
Whataburger expanded its offerings in 1982 by introducing a breakfast menu. This move marked a significant milestone in the company’s history, allowing it to cater to early morning customers.
The breakfast menu featured several new items designed to appeal to Texan tastes. Among these were the “Breakfast on a Bun” sandwich and breakfast taquitos, which quickly became popular choices.
By adding breakfast options, Whataburger extended its operating hours. Many locations began offering 24/7 service to meet growing customer demand. This change helped solidify Whataburger’s position as a go-to spot for Texans at any time of day.
The introduction of breakfast items also diversified Whataburger’s revenue streams. It allowed the company to compete more effectively with other fast-food chains that already offered morning meals.
Whataburger’s breakfast menu has continued to evolve since its inception. The company has added new items over the years while maintaining its commitment to quality and Texas-style flavors.
8) Headquarters Move to San Antonio in 2009
Whataburger made a significant change in 2009 by relocating its headquarters from Corpus Christi to San Antonio, Texas. This move marked a new chapter in the company’s history, shifting its base of operations after nearly six decades in its original hometown.
The decision to move came after careful consideration. Whataburger had already set up its crisis management system and team in San Antonio prior to the relocation. This existing infrastructure played a role in the company’s choice of the new location.
The move to San Antonio provided Whataburger with a more central location within Texas. It positioned the company in a larger metropolitan area, offering potential benefits for business operations and growth.
Despite the relocation, Whataburger maintained strong ties to its Corpus Christi roots. The company continued to support local initiatives in its founding city, including Whataburger Field, home of the Corpus Christi Hooks baseball team.
The new headquarters in San Antonio was established at 300 Concord Plaza Drive. This location became the central hub for Whataburger’s corporate operations, guiding the company’s ongoing expansion and development.
9) Launch of Whataburger Fancy Ketchup and Spicy Ketchup in Stores in 2013
In 2013, Whataburger made a significant move into the retail market by bottling its popular condiments. The company announced the launch of Fancy Ketchup, Spicy Ketchup, and Original Mustard at its Family Convention.
These products became available exclusively at H-E-B stores throughout Texas and Mexico. This marked the first time Whataburger condiments were sold outside of their restaurants.
The decision came after years of customer enthusiasm for Whataburger’s signature sauces. In 2009, fans even created a Facebook page dedicated to Whataburger Ketchup.
The launch proved successful, with H-E-B selling enough Whataburger Ketchup since 2013 to fill more than 2,800 swimming pools. The condiments were packaged in 20-ounce bottles for ketchup and 16-ounce bottles for mustard.
This milestone expanded Whataburger’s brand beyond its restaurant walls, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite flavors at home. It also strengthened the partnership between two beloved Texas institutions: Whataburger and H-E-B.
10) Opening of the 800th Whataburger Location in 2015
Whataburger reached a significant milestone in 2015 with the opening of its 800th restaurant location. This achievement marked the continued growth and popularity of the Texas-based fast-food chain.
The 800th Whataburger restaurant opened its doors to eager customers, showcasing the brand’s iconic orange-and-white striped design. This expansion demonstrated Whataburger’s enduring appeal and successful business model.
The new location featured the familiar menu items that Whataburger fans had come to love, including their signature burgers, chicken sandwiches, and breakfast offerings. It also incorporated modern amenities to enhance the dining experience.
This milestone represented Whataburger’s strong presence in Texas and its expansion into other states. The company’s growth from a single burger stand in Corpus Christi to 800 locations highlighted its journey as a beloved fast-food institution.
The opening of the 800th location reinforced Whataburger’s status as a major player in the competitive fast-food industry. It served as a testament to the brand’s ability to maintain its Texas roots while adapting to changing consumer preferences.
The Founding of Whataburger
Whataburger’s journey began in 1950 with a vision for a better burger and a small stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. The founders aimed to create a unique fast food experience that would become a Texan institution.
Inspiration for the Iconic Burger
Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton set out to make a burger so big it required two hands to hold. They wanted customers to exclaim “What a burger!” after taking a bite. This goal shaped the creation of their signature 5-inch wide burger patty.
The founders focused on quality ingredients and generous portions. They used 100% pure beef patties, large buns, and fresh toppings. This commitment to size and flavor set Whataburger apart from competitors.
Opening the First Store
On August 8, 1950, Dobson and Burton opened the first Whataburger stand in Corpus Christi. The small wooden structure featured an outdoor grill and walk-up window. It sold burgers for 25 cents each.
Initially, sales were slow. However, word spread about the large, tasty burgers. Soon, lines formed at the stand. Within a week, Whataburger was selling 800 burgers daily.
The success of the first location led to rapid expansion. By 1951, Whataburger had four restaurants in Corpus Christi. This early growth laid the foundation for the chain’s future across Texas and beyond.
Expansion Across Texas
Whataburger’s growth from a single Corpus Christi location to a statewide phenomenon marked a pivotal era in Texas fast food history. The company’s strategic decisions and innovations fueled its rapid expansion across the Lone Star State.
From Family-Owned to Franchise
Whataburger’s expansion began in earnest during the 1960s and 1970s. The Dobson family, who founded the chain, recognized the potential for growth beyond their initial location. They opened new company-owned stores in nearby Texas cities, carefully maintaining quality control.
In 1959, Whataburger granted its first franchise in Alice, Texas. This move allowed for faster expansion while preserving the brand’s core values. By 1980, Whataburger celebrated the opening of its 300th location, solidifying its presence across Texas.
Introducing the Drive-Thru
In the 1970s, Whataburger adapted to changing consumer habits by introducing drive-thru service. This innovation significantly boosted sales and accessibility. Drive-thrus allowed Whataburger to serve more customers efficiently, especially in suburban areas.
The drive-thru concept also influenced store design. New Whataburger locations featured a distinctive A-frame architecture, making them easily recognizable from a distance. This unique look became a hallmark of the brand, further aiding its expansion efforts across Texas.