Whataburger fans in Columbia, South Carolina have reason to celebrate. The Texas-based burger chain is expanding its footprint in the Palmetto State with a new location at 202 Bridgeberry Lane. Whataburger’s Columbia restaurant opened its doors on December 19, 2024, bringing its signature big, fresh, made-to-order burgers to eager customers.
The arrival of Whataburger in Columbia marks a significant milestone for the company’s growth in South Carolina. This new location is part of a broader expansion plan that includes several restaurants across the state. The 202 Bridgeberry Lane site operates 24/7, offering Whataburger’s full menu of burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, and more.
Columbia residents can now experience the taste that has made Whataburger a beloved fast-food institution since its founding in 1950. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and customizable options sets it apart in the competitive burger market. With 75 new employees hired, this Whataburger location also brings job opportunities to the local community.
History of Whataburger
Whataburger’s journey from a small Texas burger stand to a beloved fast-food chain spans over seven decades. The company’s growth reflects its commitment to quality and its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
Texas Origins
Whataburger was founded on August 8, 1950, by Harmon Dobson in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big it required two hands to hold. This unique approach set Whataburger apart from competitors.
The first restaurant, Whataburger #1, opened its doors with a simple menu featuring a quarter-pound beef patty on a five-inch bun. Dobson’s innovative marketing strategies, including promotions in local newspapers, helped drive initial success.
By 1953, Whataburger expanded through franchising. Joe Andrews Sr. became the first franchisee, opening Whataburger #5 in Alice, Texas. This marked the beginning of the company’s growth beyond its original location.
Expansion Into South Carolina
Whataburger’s entry into South Carolina represents a significant milestone in the company’s eastward expansion. The chain’s arrival in Columbia, SC, was met with enthusiasm from local residents and Texas transplants alike.
Ed Nelson, Whataburger’s President and CEO and a South Carolina native, acknowledged the company’s late entry into the Columbia market. Despite this, Whataburger aims to establish a unique presence in the area.
The Columbia location at 202 Bridgeberry Lane offers the chain’s signature menu items, including its famous burgers made with 100% pure American beef. This expansion demonstrates Whataburger’s commitment to bringing its Texas flavors to new markets across the United States.
Columbia Location Overview
Whataburger’s Columbia location sits at 202 Bridgeberry Lane, providing residents with the chain’s signature burgers and fast-food offerings. The restaurant’s position offers convenient access for locals and visitors alike.
Establishment on Killian Road
Whataburger opened its Columbia location on November 11, 2024. The restaurant is situated near Killian Road, a major thoroughfare in the northeastern part of the city. This strategic placement allows for easy access from surrounding neighborhoods and shopping areas.
The 3,751-square-foot building features Whataburger’s distinctive orange-and-white color scheme. It includes a double drive-thru, indoor seating, and a covered outdoor patio. The restaurant employs approximately 100 team members, contributing to the local job market.
Notable Intersections
The Columbia Whataburger sits at the intersection of Bridgeberry Lane and Farrow Road. This location is less than a mile from the I-77 interchange, providing quick access for travelers and commuters.
Nearby, the intersection of Killian Road and Farrow Road hosts several other businesses and restaurants. This proximity to other establishments creates a convenient dining and shopping hub for area residents.
The restaurant is also a short drive from the junction of Killian Road and Hard Scrabble Road, connecting it to the rapidly growing suburbs northeast of Columbia.
Menu Highlights
Whataburger in Columbia, SC offers a range of mouthwatering options. The menu features signature burgers, classic sides, and delectable desserts to satisfy various cravings.
Signature Burgers
The Whataburger is the chain’s iconic offering, featuring a large beef patty on a 5-inch toasted bun. For those seeking extra flavor, the Double Meat Whataburger with Cheese packs two beef patties and melted cheese. The Justaburger provides a simpler option for lighter appetites. Chicken lovers can enjoy the Whatachick’n sandwich, available grilled or crispy. All burgers come with options to customize toppings and sauces.
Sides and Desserts
Whataburger’s sides complement the main dishes perfectly. French fries, crispy and golden, are a popular choice. Onion rings offer a crunchy alternative. For a unique treat, customers can try the Funnel Cake Fries, a sweet twist on the classic side. The menu also includes salads for those seeking lighter fare. Dessert options feature shakes in various flavors, providing a cool and creamy finish to any meal.
Ordering Experience
Whataburger in Columbia, SC offers multiple convenient ways to order their burgers and other menu items. Customers can choose between traditional dine-in and takeaway options or utilize the online ordering system for added convenience.
Dine-In and Takeaway
Whataburger’s Columbia locations provide a classic fast-food dining experience. Customers can place orders at the counter, where friendly staff are ready to assist. The menu is clearly displayed, making it easy to choose from a variety of burgers, sides, and drinks. For takeaway orders, patrons can use the drive-thru or walk-in counter service.
The drive-thru option is particularly efficient, with a call-ahead feature available at some locations. This allows customers to place their order in advance and pick it up quickly at the window.
Online Ordering System
Whataburger has embraced digital technology with its online ordering system. Customers can access the menu and place orders through the official website or mobile app. The platform is user-friendly, allowing for easy customization of menu items.
Online ordering is available for both pickup and delivery options. Customers can schedule their orders in advance, with the system typically resuming at 6:00 AM daily. This feature is particularly useful for planning lunch or dinner orders ahead of time.
The online system also facilitates group ordering, with options like the 10 Whataburger® Box or the 72 Whata Wings Party Pack available for larger gatherings.
Loyalty and Rewards
Whataburger offers a rewarding loyalty program for customers at its Columbia, SC locations. The program allows diners to earn points on purchases and redeem them for menu items.
Whataburger Rewards Program
Whataburger recently revamped its rewards system to a points-based model. Customers now earn 10 points for every $1 spent both in-store and online. This new structure provides more value than the previous visit-based program.
The updated rewards program expanded redemption options across the menu. Members can use their points on a wider variety of food and drink items.
Whataburger automatically converted existing rewards and visits to points when transitioning to the new system. As a bonus, the chain added 500 points to all active rewards accounts.
Customers can easily track and redeem rewards through the Whataburger mobile app. The app also enables online ordering with curbside pickup and delivery options.
Career Opportunities
Whataburger offers diverse job prospects in Columbia, SC. The company provides roles at various levels with chances for advancement and competitive benefits.
Employment at Columbia Location
Whataburger’s Columbia restaurant is located at 202 Bridgeberry Lane. The store offers positions for entry-level team members and management roles. Restaurant Manager openings are available, overseeing daily operations and staff.
Team Member positions include food preparation, customer service, and kitchen duties. Assistant General Manager roles focus on supporting overall store management and leadership.
The company values promoting from within, giving employees opportunities to grow their careers over time.
Benefits and Growth
Whataburger provides comprehensive health benefits to eligible employees. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
The company invests in leadership development programs. These initiatives help employees enhance their skills and advance within the organization.
Whataburger encourages community involvement. Employees can participate in local outreach efforts, fostering a sense of purpose beyond their daily work.
Career growth opportunities span from entry-level positions to corporate roles. The company’s structure allows for vertical and lateral moves across different departments and locations.
Community Engagement
Whataburger actively participates in local initiatives and charitable activities in Columbia, SC. The company focuses on building meaningful connections and supporting education and food security programs.
Local Partnerships
Whataburger has formed partnerships with local organizations in Columbia to address community needs. The company collaborates with EdVenture Children’s Museum, contributing to educational programs for youth. During its groundbreaking event in Columbia, Whataburger presented a $5,000 donation check to the museum.
The fast-food chain also works with area schools and colleges. Through its Feeding Student Success program, Whataburger supports college resource rooms and provides scholarships to students in need.
Charity Events
Whataburger organizes and participates in various charity events in Columbia. The company’s community program focuses on the intersection of food insecurity and education.
Whataburger employees, known as Family Members, engage in community service projects through the Whataburger Serves initiative. These projects range from local cleanup efforts to food drives for those in need.
The restaurant chain also hosts fundraising nights for local schools and non-profit organizations. During these events, a portion of sales is donated to the participating groups.
Locations in South Carolina
Whataburger has expanded rapidly across South Carolina, opening multiple locations in key cities and regions. The chain’s growth focuses on the Midlands and Upstate areas, bringing its signature burgers to new communities.
Lexington on 202 Bridgeberry Lane
The Lexington Whataburger at 202 Bridgeberry Lane marks the chain’s entry into the Columbia area. This location opened in 2024, becoming the first Whataburger in the Midlands region. It offers the full menu of Whataburger favorites, including customizable burgers and breakfast items.
Operating hours extend late into the night, catering to diverse customer schedules. The restaurant employs approximately 75 local staff members, contributing to the area’s economy.
Irmo on 888 South Lake Drive
Whataburger’s Irmo location at 888 South Lake Drive expands the chain’s presence in the Greater Columbia area. This restaurant brings Whataburger’s Texas-style offerings closer to Irmo residents and those in neighboring communities.
The Irmo site features the brand’s distinctive orange-and-white striped design. It provides both dine-in and drive-thru options for customers seeking quick meals or a casual dining experience.
Greater Areas
Whataburger’s expansion in South Carolina extends beyond the Midlands. The chain has established a significant presence in the Upstate region, with locations in Greenville, Anderson, Boiling Springs, Mauldin, and Spartanburg.
These Upstate restaurants cater to the area’s growing population and diverse communities. Each location maintains Whataburger’s commitment to fresh, made-to-order food and friendly service.
The company plans to open approximately 60 restaurants across North and South Carolina in the coming years. This ambitious growth strategy aims to make Whataburger a familiar sight in many South Carolina towns and cities.