Florence, Alabama welcomed a new Whataburger location in October 2024, ending years of anticipation for local burger enthusiasts. The restaurant at 1554 Florence Boulevard offers the chain’s signature large five-inch buns and 100% pure American beef patties that have made Whataburger a beloved fast-food destination since 1950.
Open 24 hours a day, this Whataburger provides Florence residents and visitors with a convenient spot for late-night meals and classic American fare. The menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast items, along with sides like fries and onion rings.
Customers can dine in, use the drive-thru, or order online for pickup or delivery through popular food delivery apps. The Florence location joins over 900 Whataburger restaurants across the United States, bringing the Texas-based chain’s unique flavors and customizable options to northern Alabama.
History and Overview of Whataburger
Whataburger began in 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first restaurant in Corpus Christi, Texas. The chain quickly gained popularity for its large, five-inch buns and customizable burgers.
By 1963, Whataburger had expanded to 26 locations across Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona. The iconic A-frame restaurant design debuted in 1961 in Odessa, Texas.
Tragedy struck in 1967 when Harmon Dobson died in a plane crash. His wife Grace took over leadership, refusing to sell the company and continuing its growth.
Whataburger’s menu expanded over the years. In 1962, they added french fries and fried pies. The chain became known for serving food 24 hours a day, catering to late-night customers.
In 2013, Whataburger reached 1 million Facebook fans. That same year, they began selling their popular condiments in retail stores.
The company remained family-owned until 2019 when BDT & MSD Partners acquired a majority stake. However, the Dobson family retained a minority ownership.
Today, Whataburger is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. It continues to be a beloved American fast-food chain, particularly in the southern United States.
Whataburger in Florence, Alabama
Whataburger has established a strong presence in Florence, Alabama with its location on Florence Boulevard. The restaurant offers its signature burgers and fast food menu to local residents and visitors.
Impact on Local Community
Whataburger’s Florence location provides job opportunities for local residents. The restaurant contributes to the city’s economy by attracting customers and generating tax revenue. Many Florence residents frequent Whataburger for quick meals and late-night dining options.
The restaurant’s popularity has made it a familiar landmark on Florence Boulevard. Its distinctive orange and white color scheme is easily recognizable to passersby. Whataburger’s presence adds to the variety of dining choices available in Florence.
Florence Blvd Location
Whataburger’s Florence restaurant is situated at 1554 Florence Boulevard. This location is conveniently positioned in a busy commercial area, making it easily accessible to customers. The restaurant features a drive-thru for added convenience.
Inside, customers can enjoy Whataburger’s menu items in a clean, well-lit dining area. The Florence Boulevard location maintains the chain’s commitment to serving “bigger, better burgers” made with 100% pure American beef on toasted five-inch buns.
Operating hours and contact information:
- Phone: (256) 275-4167
- Website: whataburger.com
Customers can place orders online for pickup or delivery through the Whataburger website or mobile app.
Menu and Offerings
Whataburger in Florence, AL offers a diverse menu featuring classic burgers, chicken options, breakfast items, and healthier choices. The restaurant prides itself on using 100% pure American beef and fresh ingredients.
Burgers and Sandwiches
Whataburger’s signature item is its namesake Whataburger, served on a large five-inch toasted bun. The menu includes various burger options with customizable toppings.
Customers can choose from single, double, or triple patty burgers. Popular choices include the Bacon & Cheese Whataburger and the Jalapeño & Cheese Whataburger.
For those seeking alternatives, the menu offers fish sandwiches and grilled cheese options. All burgers can be customized with additional toppings like extra cheese, bacon, or grilled onions.
Chicken Selection
The chicken menu at Whataburger Florence features both grilled and breaded options. The Whatachick’n Sandwich is a popular choice, available in spicy or regular varieties.
Chicken strips are offered as a meal or in a sandwich format. For a lighter option, grilled chicken sandwiches are available.
Customers can add toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese to their chicken sandwiches. The restaurant also offers chicken-based salads for those seeking a lower-carb option.
Breakfast Options
Whataburger serves breakfast items from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. The menu includes classic choices like pancakes, biscuits, and breakfast platters.
Signature breakfast sandwiches feature options with bacon, sausage, or ham. The Breakfast on a Bun and Taquito with Cheese are popular choices among customers.
For those with a bigger appetite, the Breakfast Platter offers eggs, hash browns, and a choice of meat. All breakfast items can be customized with add-ons like extra cheese or jalapeños.
Salads and Healthy Choices
For health-conscious diners, Whataburger offers several salad options. The Garden Salad provides a lighter choice, while the Apple & Cranberry Salad offers a mix of flavors.
Grilled chicken can be added to any salad for extra protein. The restaurant also offers a side salad as an alternative to fries with combo meals.
Low-carb options include bunless burgers and grilled chicken items. Customers can request nutrition information for menu items to make informed choices.
Add-Ons and Condiments
Whataburger provides a variety of condiments and add-ons to customize meals. Standard condiments include mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise.
Special sauces like Spicy Ketchup and Honey BBQ are available. Customers can add extra toppings such as cheese, bacon, or jalapeños to their orders.
Side options include French fries, onion rings, and apple slices. The restaurant also offers shakes and malts in various flavors as dessert options or add-ons to meals.
Dining Experience
Whataburger in Florence, AL offers a welcoming atmosphere and round-the-clock service. The restaurant prioritizes customer comfort and convenience.
Dining Area and Ambiance
The dining area at Whataburger’s Florence location is clean and well-maintained. Customers can enjoy their meals in a comfortable setting. The restaurant features ample seating options to accommodate various group sizes.
Bright lighting and a modern decor create an inviting ambiance. The dining area is designed for efficiency, allowing customers to easily navigate the space. Staff members work diligently to keep tables and floors clean throughout operating hours.
Open 24 Hours Convenience
Whataburger in Florence operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This schedule provides unparalleled convenience for customers with diverse schedules and dining preferences.
Late-night diners can satisfy their cravings at any hour. Early risers have access to breakfast options as soon as they start their day. The 24-hour service is particularly beneficial for shift workers, travelers, and those with non-traditional schedules.
Staff members are available around the clock to take orders and serve customers. This commitment to constant availability sets Whataburger apart from many other dining establishments in the area.
Nutrition and Dietary Information
Whataburger provides nutritional information for their menu items to help customers make informed choices. The classic Whataburger contains 590 calories, which is about 30% of a 2000-calorie daily diet.
For those watching their calorie intake, Whataburger offers a variety of options. The menu includes items with different calorie counts to suit various dietary needs.
Allergen information is available for Whataburger products. The large bun used for burgers contains wheat flour, soybean oil, and may include other common allergens.
Whataburger’s website and in-store materials offer detailed nutritional facts. These include calorie content, macronutrients, and micronutrients for each menu item.
Customers can use the provided nutritional information to select meals that align with their dietary requirements. This data helps individuals manage their intake of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
Whataburger also offers customization options. Guests can modify their orders to adjust nutritional content, such as removing high-calorie toppings or choosing alternative side items.
Customer Loyalty and Rewards
Whataburger in Florence, AL participates in the company’s revamped rewards program. This program offers customers a points-based system, replacing the previous visit-based model.
Customers earn 10 points for every $1 spent, whether ordering online or in-store. This structure allows for quicker accumulation of rewards compared to the former system.
The new program expands redemption options, giving patrons more flexibility in choosing their rewards. Points can be used for a wider variety of menu items, enhancing the overall value for loyal customers.
Whataburger automatically converted existing rewards and visits from the previous program to points. As a goodwill gesture, the company added 500 points to all active rewards accounts during the transition.
The loyalty program aims to foster a sense of community among Whataburger patrons. By recognizing and rewarding customer patronage, the chain encourages repeat visits and increased sales.
Customers can easily track their points and redeem rewards through the Whataburger app. This digital integration streamlines the process, making it more convenient for users to engage with the program.
Services
Whataburger in Florence, AL offers convenient options for customers to enjoy their meals. The restaurant provides both delivery and drive-thru services to cater to different preferences and needs.
Delivery
Whataburger partners with popular food delivery platforms to bring their meals directly to customers’ doorsteps. Delivery is available from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. Customers can place orders through apps like Seamless, ensuring a wide range of menu items are accessible for home delivery.
The delivery service covers the Florence area, allowing residents to enjoy Whataburger’s signature burgers, sides, and shakes without leaving their homes or offices. Delivery times may vary depending on location and order volume.
Drive-Thru
The Whataburger location at 1554 Florence Blvd features a drive-thru option for customers on the go. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The drive-thru offers the full Whataburger menu, including breakfast items during morning hours.
Customers can expect efficient service with clear menu boards and speaker systems for placing orders. The drive-thru lane is designed to accommodate multiple vehicles, minimizing wait times during peak hours.
Payment options at the drive-thru include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment methods for added convenience.
Comparative Analysis With Competitors
Whataburger in Florence, AL faces competition from several major fast food chains. McDonald’s stands out as a primary competitor, with its global brand recognition and extensive menu offerings.
In terms of menu diversity, Whataburger focuses on customizable burgers and regional specialties. McDonald’s offers a broader range of options, including salads, wraps, and breakfast items.
Pricing strategies differ between the two. Whataburger typically positions itself as a slightly higher-quality option with corresponding prices. McDonald’s aims for mass-market appeal with competitive pricing and frequent promotions.
Brand loyalty plays a significant role in this market. Whataburger enjoys strong regional loyalty, particularly in Texas and the Southeast. McDonald’s benefits from worldwide brand recognition and consistency.
Both chains emphasize drive-thru service and quick turnaround times. Whataburger often touts its made-to-order approach, while McDonald’s highlights its speed and efficiency.
Customer service is a key differentiator. Whataburger strives for a more personalized experience, whereas McDonald’s focuses on standardized, rapid service.
In Florence, AL, local preferences and dining habits influence competition. Whataburger may appeal to those seeking a taste of regional flavor, while McDonald’s caters to customers seeking familiar options and value meals.
Employment and Career Opportunities
Whataburger in Florence, Alabama offers various job opportunities for individuals seeking employment in the fast-food industry. The restaurant chain provides positions for team members, shift managers, and night team workers.
Team member roles are available with hourly pay rates ranging from $10 to $13. These positions typically involve customer service, food preparation, and maintaining cleanliness in the restaurant.
Shift manager positions offer additional responsibilities and leadership opportunities within the Whataburger team. These roles often require more experience and may come with increased compensation.
Whataburger provides health benefits to eligible employees, demonstrating a commitment to worker well-being. The company also focuses on leadership development, offering potential for career growth.
Job seekers can easily apply for open positions through popular job search websites. Whataburger’s career portal also lists available roles and allows candidates to submit applications directly.
The company emphasizes community involvement, suggesting that employees may have opportunities to participate in local initiatives or charitable activities. This aspect of employment can appeal to those seeking to make a positive impact in Florence.
Beverages and Desserts
Whataburger in Florence, AL offers a variety of refreshing drinks and sweet treats to complement their burgers and meals. From classic sodas to creamy shakes, customers can find options to satisfy their thirst and dessert cravings.
Soft Drinks
Whataburger provides a selection of popular soft drinks to accompany meals. Coca-Cola products are available, including Coke, Diet Coke, and Sprite. For those seeking a caffeine-free option, lemonade is on the menu.
Root beer enthusiasts can enjoy this classic soda at Whataburger. The rich, smooth flavor of root beer pairs well with burgers and fries. Unsweetened iced tea is also offered for customers preferring a non-carbonated beverage.
Drink sizes typically range from small to large, allowing customers to choose according to their thirst level. Free refills are often available for dine-in customers, enhancing the value of their beverage purchase.
Shakes and Desserts
Whataburger’s shakes are a highlight of their dessert menu. These creamy treats come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. The shakes are made with real ice cream, resulting in a thick and indulgent texture.
For a limited time, seasonal shake flavors may be available, offering customers unique taste experiences. These special flavors often correspond with holidays or seasons, adding variety to the menu.
In addition to shakes, Whataburger serves other dessert options. Hot Apple Pies are a popular choice, featuring a crispy crust and warm apple filling. These handheld treats make for a convenient sweet ending to any meal.
Cookies are another dessert option, perfect for those seeking a simple sweet treat. The cookies are typically served warm, enhancing their flavor and texture.