Whataburger holds a special place in the hearts of Texans, and Corpus Christi is where it all began. The original Whataburger opened its doors in Corpus Christi, TX in 1950, serving up its signature larger-than-average burgers on toasted five-inch buns. Today, visitors can experience a taste of that history at the replica of the first Whataburger location on S Staples Street.
Corpus Christi boasts multiple Whataburger restaurants, each offering a menu that goes beyond just burgers. Patrons can enjoy chicken sandwiches, breakfast items like biscuits and pancakes, and of course, the chain’s famous spicy ketchup. These locations cater to locals and tourists alike, satisfying appetites around the clock with 24-hour service at select spots.
The Whataburger legacy in Corpus Christi extends beyond mere nostalgia. It represents a homegrown success story that has expanded across Texas and beyond while maintaining its commitment to quality ingredients and generous portions. For many, a visit to a Corpus Christi Whataburger is not just a meal, but a pilgrimage to the birthplace of a beloved Texas institution.
History of Whataburger in Corpus Christi
Whataburger’s roots run deep in Corpus Christi, Texas. The iconic fast-food chain began its journey in this coastal city, growing from a single stand to a beloved regional brand.
Original Location and Expansion
Harmon Dobson opened the first Whataburger on August 8, 1950, in Corpus Christi. The original stand stood at the corner of Ayers Street and Gollihar Road. Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big it required two hands to hold.
The company quickly gained popularity and began expanding. By 1953, Whataburger had its first franchisee, Joe Andrews Sr., who opened a location in Alice, Texas. The brand continued to grow throughout the 1950s and beyond.
Whataburger’s corporate offices remained in Corpus Christi for many years. The company operated from several locations in the city, including the Bevly Building at 1224 S. Staples Street.
Whataburger by the Bay
In 1999, Whataburger celebrated its upcoming 50th anniversary with a special tribute in its hometown. On May 6, the company opened Whataburger by the Bay in Corpus Christi.
This location serves as a nod to the brand’s history and features unique design elements. It offers panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay, blending the city’s coastal charm with Whataburger’s iconic orange-and-white color scheme.
Whataburger by the Bay has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It stands as a testament to the company’s enduring connection to Corpus Christi and its role in shaping the city’s culinary landscape.
Menu Highlights
Whataburger in Corpus Christi, TX offers a diverse selection of made-to-order favorites. The menu features classic burgers, savory chicken sandwiches, hearty breakfast options, and all-day dining choices.
Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches
Whataburger’s signature item is the Whataburger, a 100% pure beef patty on a toasted 5-inch bun. The Double Meat Whataburger adds an extra patty for hungry customers. The Patty Melt combines a beef patty with Monterey Jack cheese and grilled onions on Texas toast.
For chicken lovers, the menu includes options like the Whatachick’n Sandwich. Burgers and sandwiches can be customized with toppings and condiments, including Whataburger’s famous Fancy Ketchup and Spicy Ketchup.
Breakfast Favorites
Whataburger serves breakfast from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. The Breakfast on a Bun features a choice of sausage or bacon with egg and cheese. Biscuit sandwiches are another popular option, available with various fillings.
For those with a bigger appetite, the Breakfast Platter includes scrambled eggs, a biscuit, and hash browns. Pancakes are also on offer for those craving something sweet to start their day.
All-Day Dining Options
Whataburger’s menu extends beyond burgers and breakfast. Salads provide lighter fare, while chicken strips offer a satisfying alternative to sandwiches. The Whatachick’n Bites make for a perfect snack or side.
Side options include French fries, onion rings, and apple slices. For dessert, customers can choose from shakes, malts, and fruit pies. Whataburger’s all-day menu ensures there’s something for everyone, no matter the time of day.
Special Features and Services
Whataburger in Corpus Christi, Texas offers convenient dining options and flexible hours to meet customers’ needs. The restaurant provides multiple ways to enjoy their meals and accommodates various schedules.
Dine-In and Curbside Delivery
Whataburger Corpus Christi locations offer both dine-in and curbside delivery services. Customers can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s dining area, which features comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere.
For those preferring to eat in their vehicles or take food home, curbside delivery is available. Customers can place their orders and have them brought directly to their cars in designated parking spots.
This service is particularly convenient for families with young children or those with mobility issues. It also provides a quick option for customers on tight schedules.
Mobile Ordering with the Whataburger App
The Whataburger mobile app enhances the ordering experience for customers in Corpus Christi. Users can browse the full menu, customize their orders, and pay directly through the app.
The app allows customers to save favorite orders for quick reordering. It also provides exclusive offers and promotions to app users.
Mobile ordering reduces wait times and ensures order accuracy. Customers can choose to pick up their orders inside the restaurant or use the curbside delivery option.
Holiday Hours and Open 24 Hours
Many Whataburger locations in Corpus Christi operate 24 hours a day, catering to late-night cravings and early morning needs. This round-the-clock service is particularly valuable for shift workers and night owls.
During holidays, hours may vary. Some locations maintain regular hours on major holidays, while others may have reduced hours. It’s advisable for customers to check with their local Whataburger for specific holiday schedules.
The restaurant’s extended hours ensure that Corpus Christi residents can satisfy their Whataburger cravings nearly any time of day or night.
Location-Specific Information
Whataburger has several locations throughout Corpus Christi, Texas, offering convenient access to their signature burgers and menu items. Each store provides a unique experience while maintaining the brand’s quality and service standards.
Staples Street Store Details
The Whataburger on Staples Street is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. This location features a drive-thru for quick service and ample parking for dine-in customers. The restaurant’s interior has a clean, modern design with comfortable seating arrangements.
Operating hours are typically 24/7, catering to late-night cravings and early risers. The menu includes Whataburger classics as well as limited-time offerings. Friendly staff members are known for their efficient service and warm Texas hospitality.
Saratoga Boulevard Spot
Whataburger’s Saratoga Boulevard location serves the growing residential area in Corpus Christi’s southside. This store boasts a spacious dining room and outdoor seating options for those who prefer to enjoy their meals al fresco.
The kitchen is equipped to handle high volumes during peak hours, ensuring quick turnaround times. Customers appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the restaurant’s adherence to cleanliness standards.
Special promotions and local school spirit nights are often held at this location, fostering community engagement.
Weber Road and Cimarron Locations
The Weber Road Whataburger is situated in a bustling commercial area, making it a convenient stop for shoppers and workers in nearby businesses. Its layout is optimized for efficient customer flow during busy lunch hours.
The Cimarron location, while smaller, offers a cozy atmosphere and is known for its friendly, personalized service. Both stores feature updated interiors with Whataburger’s signature orange and white color scheme.
These locations often participate in local events and fundraisers, strengthening their ties to the Corpus Christi community.
South Padre Island Drive Accessibility
Whataburger’s presence on South Padre Island Drive (SPID) caters to both locals and tourists traveling to the popular beach destinations. These locations are strategically placed for easy access from the main thoroughfare.
The SPID stores are equipped with dual drive-thru lanes to manage high traffic volumes, especially during peak vacation seasons. Inside, the restaurants offer charging stations and free Wi-Fi for customer convenience.
Menu boards are clearly visible from the road, allowing drivers to make quick decisions. These locations also serve as popular meeting spots for groups heading to or returning from the beach.
Dining Experience
Whataburger in Corpus Christi, Texas offers a unique fast-food dining experience with its signature menu items and distinctive atmosphere. The restaurant’s ambiance and condiments contribute to its popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Atmosphere and Ambience
The two-story Whataburger in Corpus Christi stands out with its impressive 6,000 square-foot space. Located at 121 N. Shoreline Blvd, this restaurant provides scenic views of the area.
The large building features an orange and white exterior, instantly recognizable as Whataburger’s trademark colors. Inside, customers find a spacious dining area spread across two floors.
The restaurant’s design combines modern elements with a classic fast-food feel. Ample seating allows for comfortable dining experiences during busy hours.
Signature Condiments and Sides
Whataburger’s Fancy Ketchup has achieved legendary status among patrons. This condiment has become so popular that it’s now available for purchase outside the restaurant.
The Jalapeno Ranch is another fan-favorite, adding a spicy kick to burgers and fries. These signature sauces complement Whataburger’s menu items, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Side dishes include crispy fries, onion rings, and apple slices. The restaurant also offers a variety of shakes and malts to round out the meal.
Whataburger’s commitment to quality extends to its condiments and sides, ensuring a consistent and satisfying dining experience for customers.
Nutritional and Allergen Information
Whataburger provides detailed nutritional information for their menu items. Customers can access calorie counts, macronutrients, and other key nutritional data for all offerings.
The chain’s website features a comprehensive nutrition guide. This includes breakdowns of calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein, sodium, and other nutrients for each menu item.
Whataburger also offers an allergen menu focusing on the top 9 US food allergens. These include milk, wheat, egg, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and sesame. The allergen menu additionally lists items containing MSG and gluten.
For those with dietary restrictions, Whataburger’s nutrition tools allow filtering menu items based on specific nutritional criteria. This helps customers find options that fit their individual needs.
The company updates its nutritional information periodically. As of March 29, 2021, a standard Whataburger contained 590 calories, 25g of fat, 62g of carbohydrates, and 29g of protein.
Nutritional content can vary based on customizations and preparation methods. Whataburger encourages customers with specific dietary concerns to consult their website or speak with restaurant staff for the most current information.