Whataburger, the beloved Texas-based fast food chain, has garnered a devoted following over its decades-long history. Known for its distinctive orange-and-white striped restaurants and classic burgers, Whataburger has become an integral part of Texan culture and expanded its reach across the southern United States.
Whataburger’s popularity has led to numerous viral moments and newsworthy events that have captured public attention. From heartwarming stories of customer loyalty to amusing social media interactions, the burger chain has repeatedly found itself in the spotlight. These headline-making incidents have only served to strengthen Whataburger’s iconic status and deepen its connection with fans across the country.
1) Whataburger’s Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit success
Whataburger’s Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit has become a breakfast sensation, captivating fast food enthusiasts across Texas and beyond. This popular menu item features a crispy breaded chicken strip nestled between a fluffy, buttery biscuit, generously slathered with sweet honey butter sauce.
The combination of savory fried chicken, soft biscuit, and honey butter creates a harmonious blend of flavors that has earned a devoted following. Its popularity has grown to such an extent that it has sparked a cult-like status among Whataburger fans.
The success of this breakfast item can be attributed to its carefully crafted components. The crispy chicken, perfectly cooked biscuit, and signature honey butter sauce come together to create a satisfying and indulgent morning meal.
Whataburger’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and maintaining consistent quality has contributed to the enduring appeal of the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. This breakfast offering has helped solidify Whataburger’s reputation as a beloved fast-food chain, particularly in its home state of Texas.
2) Partnership with Texas A&M Athletics
Whataburger formed a strategic partnership with Texas A&M Athletics, creating excitement among Aggie fans. This collaboration brought together two beloved Texas institutions.
The partnership featured various promotions and contests. Whataburger presented a “Player of the Week” award throughout the year, recognizing outstanding Aggie athletes.
One notable contest offered fans the chance to win Whataburger for a year and Texas A&M autographed memorabilia. This promotion generated significant interest among the Aggie community.
The partnership extended to social media engagement. Texas A&M Athletics’ official accounts promoted voting for the Whataburger Player of the Year, encouraging fan participation.
Whataburger’s involvement reached beyond digital platforms. The company provided food deliveries during ticket pull events, demonstrating its commitment to serving Aggies around the clock.
Athletes from different sports, including volleyball and baseball, participated in Whataburger-sponsored activities. This cross-sport involvement highlighted the partnership’s broad reach within the Texas A&M athletic program.
3) Introduction of the Mushroom Swiss Burger
Whataburger made waves in 2018 with the debut of its Mushroom Swiss Burger. This savory creation featured two fresh beef patties topped with premium grilled mushrooms, creamy Au Jus sauce, and Swiss cheese slices.
The burger quickly gained popularity among mushroom enthusiasts across Whataburger’s 10-state service area. Its success led to a significant announcement in July 2019, when Whataburger added the Mushroom Swiss Burger to its All-Time Favorites menu.
This move solidified the burger’s place as a permanent menu item, delighting fans who had eagerly awaited its return. The Mushroom Swiss Burger was priced at $5.99 for the sandwich alone, with a combo meal option available for $8.24.
Nutritionally, the burger packed a flavorful punch with 1090 calories, 69 grams of fat, and 59 grams of carbohydrates. Its unique combination of ingredients set it apart from traditional fast-food offerings, appealing to customers seeking a more gourmet burger experience.
4) Whataburger’s 24-hour drive-thru service launch
Whataburger made waves in the fast-food industry with its 24-hour drive-thru service launch. This move solidified the chain’s commitment to serving customers around the clock, catering to late-night cravings and early risers alike.
The introduction of 24/7 drive-thru operations set Whataburger apart from many competitors. It allowed the restaurant to serve its full menu, including its popular burgers, at any time of day or night.
This service expansion was particularly noteworthy as it applied to most Whataburger locations. The company aimed to maintain consistency across its restaurants, ensuring customers could rely on service regardless of the time or location.
The 24-hour drive-thru initiative highlighted Whataburger’s adaptability to changing consumer habits. It recognized the growing demand for convenient, anytime dining options in an increasingly fast-paced world.
This strategic decision not only boosted Whataburger’s sales but also strengthened its brand identity. It reinforced the chain’s reputation for accessibility and customer-focused service, contributing to its loyal following.
5) Viral TikTok Whataburger order
A Whataburger customer’s TikTok video showcasing her $100 Big Box order went viral, sparking discussions about fast food hacks. The video displayed an impressive array of Whataburger items packed into a large box.
While some viewers were impressed by the sheer volume of food, others questioned the value of such a large order. The TikTok community debated whether this hack was worth the price tag.
In another viral incident, a Whataburger employee gained attention for flipping over a customer’s order. The humorous video amassed over 2.6 million views on TikTok, with many viewers empathizing with the employee’s actions.
A 16-year-old named Mueller set an unofficial record at Whataburger by consuming a massive custom burger in just 20 minutes. The TikTok video of his feat garnered 3 million views and caught the attention of Whataburger itself.
These viral moments demonstrate how social media platforms like TikTok have become a stage for unique fast food experiences, often putting Whataburger in the spotlight.
6) ‘Whatachick’n Bites’ menu addition
Whataburger expanded its chicken offerings in 2024 with the introduction of Whatachick’n Bites. These bite-sized pieces of chicken quickly gained popularity among customers looking for a snackable option.
The new menu item featured small, crunchy chicken bites perfect for dipping. Whataburger positioned them as an ideal choice for on-the-go eating or as a shareable appetizer.
Whatachick’n Bites were offered in various serving sizes, including 6-piece and 9-piece options. Customers could order them as standalone items or as part of combo meals with fries and a drink.
Priced competitively, the 9-piece Whatachick’n Bites meal was listed at $6.99. This pricing strategy aimed to attract both value-conscious consumers and those seeking a satisfying chicken option.
The addition of Whatachick’n Bites demonstrated Whataburger’s commitment to menu innovation and meeting evolving customer preferences. It also helped the chain compete more effectively in the fast-food chicken segment.
7) Collaborative Whataburger and Shiner partnership
A viral image circulated on social media sparked excitement among Texans about a potential collaboration between two beloved brands: Whataburger and Shiner Beer. The image showcased a fictional “Shiner Whatabeer” using Whataburger’s distinctive font and color scheme.
The concept of these Texas icons joining forces for a special beer captured the imagination of many fans. Unfortunately, the collaboration was not real. Both Whataburger and Shiner quickly clarified that no such partnership existed.
The fake advertisement was created by designer Mark Fallis, who aimed to make something viral and catch the attention of the companies. While the idea resonated with many Texans, it remained purely fictional.
This incident demonstrated the strong brand loyalty and enthusiasm that both Whataburger and Shiner Beer command in Texas. It also highlighted the power of social media to spread information, whether real or imagined, about popular brands.
8) Whataburger opening its first restaurant outside Texas
Whataburger expanded beyond Texas borders in 1959, marking a significant milestone for the burger chain. The first out-of-state location opened in Pensacola, Florida, just nine years after the company’s founding in Corpus Christi, Texas.
This move demonstrated Whataburger’s ambition to grow beyond its home state. It also signaled the beginning of the brand’s regional expansion across the Southern United States.
The Pensacola restaurant introduced Whataburger’s signature offerings to a new market. Floridians could now experience the chain’s made-to-order burgers, crispy fries, and famous spicy ketchup.
Despite venturing outside Texas, Whataburger maintained its commitment to quality and customer service. The Florida location adhered to the same standards and menu items that made the chain popular in its home state.
This expansion laid the groundwork for Whataburger’s future growth. Today, the chain operates hundreds of restaurants across multiple states, while still maintaining its Texas roots and traditions.
9) Launch of Whataburger’s mobile app
Whataburger entered the digital age with the release of its mobile app, marking a significant milestone for the Texas-based fast food chain. The app allows customers to order meals for pickup or delivery, streamlining the ordering process and reducing wait times.
Users can browse the menu, customize orders, and save their favorite items for quick reordering. The app also provides access to exclusive offers and promotions, enhancing the customer experience.
A key feature of the Whataburger app is its rewards program. Customers earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items. This loyalty program encourages repeat visits and fosters customer engagement.
The app’s geomap functionality displays nearby Whataburger locations, making it easier for customers to find restaurants. However, this feature has led to a patent infringement lawsuit against the company.
Whataburger’s digital strategy team received recognition for their work on the app. In July 2022, QSR Magazine noted that Whataburger’s app downloads outpaced those of industry giants like McDonald’s and Starbucks.
10) Whataburger’s inaugural Fiesta Medal release
Whataburger made waves in the San Antonio community with its first-ever Fiesta Medal release in 2023. The iconic Texas fast-food chain joined the beloved local tradition, creating excitement among Fiesta enthusiasts and Whataburger fans alike.
The medal design paid homage to Whataburger’s roots, featuring a miniature replica of the classic A-frame buildings that housed the earliest restaurants. This nostalgic touch resonated with long-time customers and collectors.
Priced at $6.99, the medal was both accessible and collectable. Whataburger also offered limited-edition Fiesta T-shirts in collaboration with Tumbleweed TexStyles, expanding their Fiesta-themed merchandise offerings.
The release event drew crowds, with some locations limiting purchases to two medals per customer. This strategy ensured more fans could participate in the inaugural release while also creating a sense of exclusivity.
By entering the Fiesta Medal scene, Whataburger demonstrated its commitment to local culture and community engagement. The move further cemented the brand’s status as a beloved Texas institution.
11) Holiday Whataburger collaboration with artist Temi Coker
Whataburger partnered with renowned artist Temi Coker for a festive holiday collaboration in 2024. The fast-food chain sought to bring a fresh artistic perspective to its seasonal merchandise.
Coker, known for his vibrant digital designs and photography, created exclusive artwork for Whataburger’s holiday collection. His unique style incorporated elements of Whataburger’s iconic branding with festive motifs.
The collaboration resulted in a limited-edition line of products, including t-shirts, hats, and home decor items. Coker’s designs featured playful interpretations of Whataburger menu items reimagined as holiday decorations.
Fans eagerly embraced the collection, which quickly sold out online and in select Whataburger locations. The partnership garnered attention from art enthusiasts and fast-food lovers alike.
This collaboration marked Whataburger’s efforts to expand its brand beyond traditional fast-food offerings. It demonstrated the company’s willingness to explore creative partnerships and engage with its customer base in new ways.
12) Limited edition Whataburger Dr. Pepper Shake
Whataburger’s Dr. Pepper Shake has become a highly anticipated seasonal offering. The fast food chain periodically reintroduces this popular menu item for limited runs, generating excitement among customers.
The shake combines a vanilla base with Dr. Pepper syrup, creating a rich and creamy treat. Its unique flavor profile captures the essence of the iconic soda in a new form.
Whataburger’s Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Rich Scheffler, emphasized the shake’s distinctiveness. He noted that it allows customers to experience their favorite soft drink in an innovative way.
The Dr. Pepper Shake first debuted in 2019. Since then, it has made several returns to Whataburger’s menu. Each reappearance is strategically timed, often coinciding with warmer weather.
Availability and pricing for the Dr. Pepper Shake vary by market. Its limited-time status adds to its appeal, encouraging customers to act quickly when it becomes available.
13) First time attending the New York Stock Exchange
Whataburger made waves in the financial world when it participated in its first event at the New York Stock Exchange. The Texas-based burger chain’s executives traveled to Wall Street to mark a significant milestone in the company’s history.
The iconic orange and white Whataburger logo stood out among the suits and screens on the trading floor. Company representatives had the honor of ringing the opening bell, a tradition that dates back to 1956.
This appearance at the NYSE symbolized Whataburger’s growth from a small regional chain to a major player in the fast-food industry. It demonstrated the brand’s increasing national recognition and economic impact.
The event generated buzz on social media, with fans expressing pride in seeing their beloved Texas institution represented on such a prominent stage. Financial analysts took note of Whataburger’s presence, sparking discussions about the company’s future prospects.
For Whataburger, this NYSE visit represented more than just a photo opportunity. It signaled the company’s ambitions and its readiness to compete on a larger scale in the competitive fast-food market.
Impact of Whataburger in Pop Culture
Whataburger has become a cultural icon in Texas and beyond, appearing in various forms of media and gaining celebrity attention. The fast-food chain’s distinctive orange-and-white striped buildings and beloved menu items have made it a recognizable symbol of Texan culture.
Cameos in Film and Television
Whataburger has made notable appearances in popular TV shows and movies set in Texas. In the critically acclaimed series “Friday Night Lights,” characters are often seen enjoying Whataburger meals, reflecting the restaurant’s importance in small-town Texas life.
The chain was also featured in Richard Linklater’s coming-of-age film “Boyhood,” further cementing its status as a Texan cultural touchstone. These cameos have helped introduce Whataburger to audiences outside of its primary market.
Reality TV shows like “Texas Flip N Move” have also showcased Whataburger, with contestants sometimes stopping for a meal during their renovation projects. This exposure has reinforced the brand’s association with Texas lifestyle and values.
Celebrity Endorsements
Numerous celebrities have publicly expressed their love for Whataburger, boosting its cultural cachet. Texas-born musicians like Beyoncé and Travis Scott have been spotted at Whataburger locations, generating buzz on social media.
NBA stars, particularly those playing for Texas teams, often mention Whataburger in interviews or on their social platforms. This includes players like Kawhi Leonard and Manu Ginobili, who have shared their appreciation for the chain’s offerings.
Country music artists frequently reference Whataburger in their songs and music videos, tapping into the restaurant’s status as a Southern staple. These endorsements have helped Whataburger maintain its relevance and appeal to younger generations.
Cultural Significance of Whataburger
Whataburger has become deeply embedded in Texas culture, transcending its role as a fast-food chain. The iconic orange-and-white striped buildings have become recognizable landmarks across the state and beyond.
Traditions and Rituals
Whataburger has inspired unique traditions among its devoted fanbase. Many Texans make late-night Whataburger runs a regular part of their social outings. The restaurant’s 24-hour service caters to this ritual, welcoming hungry patrons at all hours.
Some couples have even incorporated Whataburger into their wedding celebrations. From serving Whataburger at receptions to taking wedding photos at local franchises, the chain has become an unexpected part of matrimonial traditions for some Texans.
Sports fans often make Whataburger a pre-game or post-game tradition. High school football players and fans frequently gather at their local Whataburger after Friday night games, cementing the restaurant’s place in Texas sports culture.
Community Engagement
Whataburger actively participates in local communities across its operating areas. The company sponsors numerous charitable causes and events, particularly those focused on education and youth development.
The Whataburger Feeding Student Success program provides resources and volunteers to support schools and students. This initiative includes scholarship programs, fundraising events, and partnerships with educational institutions.
Whataburger’s community involvement extends to disaster relief efforts. During hurricanes and other natural disasters, the chain has provided free meals to first responders and affected residents, demonstrating its commitment to supporting local communities in times of need.
The company also engages with local sports teams, sponsoring high school and college athletics programs. This involvement further cements Whataburger’s place in the fabric of community life, especially in Texas.