Kansas City’s Texas Touchdown: Whataburger Scores Big with Mahomes-Backed Expansion

Whataburger has expanded its presence in Kansas City, bringing its iconic orange-and-white striped restaurants to eager burger enthusiasts. The Texas-based chain known for its hefty, made-to-order burgers is making waves in the Midwest.

Whataburger now operates multiple locations in Kansas City, including a restaurant at 600 NW Barry Road and another at 4200 Sterling Avenue. These establishments offer the brand’s signature menu items, from classic burgers to chicken sandwiches, satisfying local appetites around the clock.

The expansion into Kansas City has garnered attention, with NFL star Patrick Mahomes even getting involved in ownership of a local Whataburger franchise. This move has heightened excitement among residents and visitors alike, solidifying Whataburger’s place in the city’s fast-food landscape.

History of Whataburger in Kansas City

The bustling city of Kansas with a prominent Whataburger sign against a backdrop of urban skyscrapers and busy streets

Whataburger’s arrival in Kansas City marked a significant expansion for the Texas-based chain. The move brought the popular burger restaurant to a new market, with local sports icon Patrick Mahomes playing a key role in its reception.

Expansion into Missouri

Whataburger opened its first Kansas City, Missouri location in 2021. This expansion was part of a broader push into the Midwest market. The company’s move into the area was met with enthusiasm from locals eager to try the chain’s signature burgers and menu items.

Whataburger’s Kansas City debut included plans for multiple locations across the metropolitan area. The company’s strategy involved establishing a strong presence in both Missouri and Kansas sides of the city.

Patrick Mahomes and Local Impact

Patrick Mahomes, star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, played a significant role in Whataburger’s local success. Mahomes, a Texas native and long-time Whataburger fan, publicly expressed his love for the chain.

His enthusiasm helped generate buzz and anticipation for Whataburger’s arrival. Mahomes later became a franchise owner, investing in 30 future Whataburger locations in the Kansas City area.

This partnership between Mahomes and Whataburger boosted the chain’s profile in the region. It also aligned the brand with one of the city’s most beloved sports figures, creating a strong local connection.

Menu Highlights

A bustling Whataburger restaurant in Kansas City, with a colorful menu board and customers enjoying their meals

Whataburger in Kansas City offers a diverse selection of fast food favorites. The menu features signature burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, sides, salads, and desserts.

Signature Burgers

Whataburger’s lineup of burgers includes the iconic Whataburger, made with a 100% pure beef patty on a toasted five-inch bun. The Double Meat Whataburger doubles the beef for hearty appetites. Specialty options like the Jalapeno & Cheese Whataburger add a spicy kick.

Customization is key, with toppings such as fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions available. Mustard is the standard condiment, but customers can request mayonnaise or ketchup instead.

Chicken Sandwiches

The Whatachick’n Sandwich features a breaded chicken filet with lettuce and tomato. For a zestier option, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich adds jalapenos and a spicy sauce. Grilled chicken sandwiches are available for those seeking a lighter choice.

Whataburger also offers chicken strip meals, perfect for dipping in their signature sauces like Honey BBQ or Creamy Pepper.

Breakfast Offerings

Breakfast is served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. daily. The Breakfast on a Bun combines eggs, cheese, and a choice of bacon or sausage. Taquitos with cheese, wrapped in a soft tortilla, come with various fillings like potato, egg, and cheese.

Pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and breakfast platters round out the morning menu. Coffee and orange juice are available to complement the meal.

Sides and Salads

French fries are a staple side, crispy and golden. Onion rings offer a crunchy alternative. For a healthier option, garden salads come with mixed greens, grape tomatoes, and carrots.

The Apple & Cranberry Salad adds a sweet touch with dried cranberries and apple slices. Dressings include Low-Fat Herb Vinaigrette and Creamy Pepper.

Desserts and Shakes

Whataburger’s shakes come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. The thick, creamy texture makes them a popular choice. Seasonal flavors may be offered throughout the year.

For a quick sweet treat, customers can try the Cinnamon Roll or the Warm Apple Pie. The Chocolate Chunk Cookie provides a satisfying end to any meal.

Distinctive Features

The iconic orange and white striped roof of a Whataburger restaurant stands out against the Kansas City skyline, with a line of cars wrapping around the drive-thru

Whataburger in Kansas City offers several unique aspects that set it apart from other fast-food chains. These features cater to customer preferences and convenience.

Made-to-Order Approach

Whataburger takes pride in its made-to-order burgers. Each patty is cooked fresh when ordered, not pre-made and kept warm. This approach ensures customers receive hot, juicy burgers crafted to their specifications.

The restaurant uses 100% pure American beef for its patties. These are served on a large, toasted five-inch bun, creating a substantial meal.

Customization is key at Whataburger. Customers can add or remove toppings, choose different buns, or adjust the number of patties to suit their tastes.

24-Hour Service

Whataburger locations in Kansas City operate around the clock. This 24/7 service caters to early risers, night owls, and everyone in between.

The full menu is available at all hours. Whether it’s breakfast at midnight or a burger at dawn, customers can satisfy their cravings anytime.

This round-the-clock operation is particularly beneficial for shift workers, travelers, and those with non-traditional schedules.

Curbside and Delivery Options

Whataburger adapts to modern dining preferences with convenient ordering methods. Customers can place orders online through the Whataburger website or mobile app.

Curbside pickup allows customers to collect their orders without leaving their cars. This option combines the freshness of made-to-order food with the convenience of drive-thru service.

Delivery services are available, bringing Whataburger meals directly to homes and offices. This option expands the restaurant’s reach beyond its physical locations.

These features enhance accessibility and cater to customers who prefer contactless or at-home dining experiences.

Whataburger Locations in Kansas City Area

Whataburger has expanded its presence in the Kansas City metropolitan area with multiple locations across different cities and neighborhoods. The Texas-based fast-food chain has strategically placed restaurants to serve burger enthusiasts throughout the region.

Lee’s Summit

Whataburger opened its first Kansas City area location in Lee’s Summit. The restaurant is situated at 1450 Douglas St., Lee’s Summit, MO 64086. This location marked the beginning of Whataburger’s expansion into the Kansas City market.

The Lee’s Summit Whataburger features the chain’s signature orange-and-white striped exterior. It offers a drive-thru for convenient service and a dining room for those who prefer to eat in. The menu includes Whataburger’s famous made-to-order burgers, chicken sandwiches, and breakfast items.

Overland Park

Whataburger established a presence in Overland Park, Kansas, to serve customers on the Kansas side of the metro area. The Overland Park location is at 8420 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS 66223.

This restaurant brings Whataburger’s Texas flavor to Johnson County. It features the chain’s full menu, including customizable burgers, crispy chicken strips, and hand-spun milkshakes. The Overland Park location aims to become a popular spot for local residents and visitors alike.

Raymore

Whataburger expanded its footprint to Raymore, Missouri, providing another option for burger lovers in the southern part of the Kansas City metro. The exact address of the Raymore location was not provided in the search results.

The Raymore Whataburger offers the chain’s signature orange and white color scheme, creating a familiar and welcoming atmosphere for customers. It serves the full Whataburger menu, including breakfast items available from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.

Olathe

Whataburger plans to open a location in Olathe, Kansas, further expanding its presence in Johnson County. The specific address for the Olathe restaurant was not mentioned in the search results.

This location will bring Whataburger’s made-to-order burgers and other menu items to Olathe residents. The restaurant is expected to feature both drive-thru and dine-in options, catering to various customer preferences.

North Booth Avenue and Missouri 45

Whataburger has plans for a location near the intersection of North Booth Avenue and Missouri 45. This spot will serve the northern part of Kansas City, Missouri. The exact address was not provided in the search results.

The North Booth Avenue and Missouri 45 location will likely feature Whataburger’s standard menu offerings. It will provide another convenient option for residents in the Northland area to enjoy Whataburger’s Texas-style fast food.

Bannister Road

Whataburger is set to open a restaurant on Bannister Road in Kansas City, Missouri. The precise address was not specified in the search results. This location will serve the southern part of Kansas City.

The Bannister Road Whataburger will offer the chain’s full menu, including its famous Whataburgers, Whatachick’n sandwiches, and breakfast taquitos. It will likely feature both drive-thru and dine-in options to accommodate different customer needs.

Metro North Crossing and Tiffany Springs

Whataburger plans to open locations at Metro North Crossing and Tiffany Springs, both in the northern part of Kansas City, Missouri. Specific addresses for these locations were not provided in the search results.

These restaurants will bring Whataburger’s Texas flavors to more areas of the Northland. Both locations are expected to offer the full Whataburger menu and maintain the chain’s commitment to fresh, made-to-order food. The Metro North Crossing and Tiffany Springs restaurants will likely feature drive-thru services and dining rooms.

Dining Experience

Whataburger in Kansas City offers a casual fast-food environment with some unique touches. The dining area caters to both quick meals and longer stays, with a layout designed for customer comfort and efficiency.

Atmosphere and Decor

Whataburger’s Kansas City locations feature a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The decor incorporates the brand’s signature orange and white color scheme, creating a lively ambiance. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, enhancing the cheerful mood.

Wall art often showcases local Kansas City themes, blending the Texas-based chain with regional flair. Digital menu boards display the extensive offerings, making ordering easy for customers. The restaurants maintain a clean and well-maintained appearance, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.

Seating and Dining Area

The dining areas in Kansas City Whataburger locations provide various seating options to accommodate different group sizes. Booths line the walls, offering privacy for families or small groups. Central areas feature tables and chairs that can be rearranged for larger parties.

High-top tables near windows cater to solo diners or those preferring a view. The seating is comfortable and spaced to allow easy movement. Each table is equipped with condiment caddies for customer convenience.

Most locations include outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying meals in pleasant weather. The overall layout promotes efficient customer flow from ordering to seating, enhancing the fast-food experience while maintaining a comfortable dining atmosphere.

Rewards and Mobile Ordering

A bustling Whataburger restaurant in Kansas City, with customers using mobile ordering and receiving rewards at the counter

Whataburger offers a convenient mobile app and rewards program for Kansas City customers. The app allows easy ordering and point accumulation, while the rewards system provides enticing benefits for loyal patrons.

Whataburger App Features

The Whataburger app streamlines the ordering process for Kansas City diners. Users can browse the full menu, customize their orders, and pay directly through the app. This feature reduces wait times and ensures accuracy.

The app also enables location-based services, helping customers find the nearest Whataburger restaurant in Kansas City. Push notifications keep users informed about special promotions and new menu items.

For added convenience, the app stores favorite orders and payment information. This allows for quick reordering of preferred meals with just a few taps.

Earning Points and Rewards

Whataburger’s rewards program operates on a points-based system. Customers earn points for every purchase made through the app or in-store. These points can be redeemed for a wide variety of menu items.

The program now covers almost everything on the menu, including popular choices like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and All-Time Favorites. This expansion gives customers more flexibility in using their rewards.

Points accumulate quickly, encouraging frequent visits. The system also offers bonus point opportunities during special promotions or for trying new menu items.

Rewards members receive exclusive offers and early access to limited-time products. This creates added value for loyal Whataburger fans in Kansas City.

Special Offerings

A bustling Whataburger restaurant in Kansas City, with a vibrant sign and people enjoying special offerings

Whataburger in Kansas City delights customers with rotating menu items and personalized ordering options. The restaurant caters to diverse tastes through seasonal promotions and customizable burgers.

Seasonal and Limited Time Offers

Whataburger regularly introduces exciting limited-time offerings to keep the menu fresh. The Bacon Blaze Jalapeno Double Burger recently hit menus, featuring spicy jalapeno ranch and crispy bacon. This creation exemplifies Whataburger’s commitment to bold flavors.

Seasonal items often showcase regional tastes or holiday themes. The Patty Melt, a fan favorite, makes occasional appearances as a special. It combines a beef patty with grilled onions and melted cheese on Texas Toast.

Customization Options

Whataburger empowers customers to tailor their meals to personal preferences. Diners can modify any sandwich by adding or removing toppings, adjusting spice levels, or switching bun types.

Popular customization choices include:

  • Extra patties
  • Jalapenos for heat
  • Avocado for creaminess
  • Grilled onions

The “What-a-Way” ordering system allows for precise customization. Customers can create unique combinations, ensuring each visit offers a personalized dining experience.

Operational Hours

The Whataburger in Kansas City is bustling with customers during its operational hours, with cars lined up at the drive-thru and people dining inside

Whataburger locations in Kansas City maintain extensive operating hours to serve customers around the clock. Most restaurants remain open 24/7, providing convenient access to their menu at any time of day or night.

Holiday Hours

Whataburger typically keeps its doors open on major holidays. Customers can enjoy their favorite burgers and fries even on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and Thanksgiving. Some locations may adjust their hours slightly on these special days, so it’s wise to check with the specific restaurant for any holiday schedule changes.

Drive-Thru and Dine-In Times

Drive-thru service operates 24 hours a day at most Whataburger locations in Kansas City. This allows customers to grab a quick meal without leaving their vehicles at any time.

Dine-in areas usually follow the same round-the-clock schedule. Patrons can sit and enjoy their meals inside the restaurant at any hour.

Late-night crowds often appreciate the ability to satisfy their cravings in the early morning hours. The 24-hour policy applies to both weekdays and weekends, ensuring consistent availability for customers.