Whataburger has arrived in Kansas City, bringing its famous made-to-order burgers to eager Missouri diners. The Texas-based chain known for its orange-and-white striped buildings now has multiple locations in the Kansas City area. Whataburger’s first Kansas City restaurant opened in 2022 at 400 NW Barry Road, serving its signature large burgers on toasted five-inch buns 24 hours a day.
Kansas City residents can now enjoy Whataburger’s full menu of burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, and more. The chain uses 100% pure American beef for its patties. Beyond burgers, popular menu items include Whatachick’n Strips and breakfast taquitos.
Local sports fans may be especially excited, as NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes is involved with bringing Whataburger to Kansas City. The native Texan and Kansas City Chiefs star is part of the ownership group for some area Whataburger franchises. This connection adds extra hometown appeal to the brand’s expansion into the Missouri market.
History of Whataburger in Kansas City
Whataburger, the Texas-based fast-food chain, made its debut in Kansas City in 2021. This marked a significant expansion for the company into the Midwest region.
The first Whataburger location in the Kansas City area opened in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. This was quickly followed by another restaurant in Independence, Missouri.
In 2022, Whataburger continued its growth in the region. The company opened its first Kansas City, Kansas location on June 7, 2022. This restaurant is situated at 10780 Parallel Parkway.
Whataburger’s expansion into Kansas City brought its signature menu items to the area. These include the popular Whataburger, made with 100% pure American beef on a toasted five-inch bun.
The company’s move into Kansas City was part of a larger strategy to establish a presence in the Midwest. This expansion increased Whataburger’s footprint to 14 states.
Whataburger’s entry into the Kansas City market introduced local residents to its 24/7 service model. The chain prides itself on serving its full menu around the clock, a unique offering in the fast-food industry.
Menu Highlights
Whataburger Kansas City offers a diverse menu featuring made-to-order burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, and salads. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients and customizable options to satisfy various tastes.
Burgers
Whataburger’s signature item is its made-to-order burgers. The menu features 100% pure American beef patties served on a toasted five-inch bun. Popular choices include the classic Whataburger and the Double Meat Whataburger.
Customers can customize their burgers with various toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. Cheese lovers can opt for the Monterey Melt or the Patty Melt. For those seeking extra flavor, the Jalapeno & Cheese Whataburger adds a spicy kick.
Whataburger also offers bacon as an add-on to any burger, creating combinations like the Bacon & Cheese Whataburger.
Chicken Sandwiches and Other Offerings
The menu extends beyond burgers with a selection of chicken sandwiches. The Whatachick’n Sandwich features a breaded chicken fillet, while the Grilled Chicken Sandwich caters to health-conscious diners.
Whataburger’s chicken strip options include the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich, combining crispy chicken strips with tangy honey barbecue sauce. Sides like crispy fries and onion rings complement these main dishes.
For those craving variety, the menu includes fish sandwiches and chicken fajita tacos. Whataburger’s selection of dipping sauces, including Honey Butter and Spicy Ketchup, enhances these offerings.
Breakfast Favorites
Whataburger serves breakfast items from 11 PM to 11 AM daily. The menu features classic options like the Breakfast on a Bun, combining eggs, cheese, and a choice of bacon or sausage on a toasted bun.
Biscuit lovers can enjoy the Biscuit Sandwich with various fillings. For heartier appetites, the Breakfast Platter includes scrambled eggs, hash browns, and a choice of meat.
Pancakes are another popular breakfast item, served with butter and syrup. Taquitos, filled with eggs and various ingredients, offer a Tex-Mex twist to the morning menu.
Salads and Healthy Options
Health-conscious diners can find lighter options on Whataburger’s menu. The Garden Salad features fresh mixed greens, grape tomatoes, and carrots, with a choice of grilled or crispy chicken.
The Apple & Cranberry Chicken Salad combines mixed greens with dried cranberries, apples, and shredded cheese. Customers can select from various dressings to customize their salads.
For those seeking a balance between indulgence and health, the Grilled Chicken Melt offers a leaner protein option. The menu also includes options for customizing sandwiches and burgers to reduce calorie content.
Unique Whataburger Recipes
Whataburger’s expansion into Kansas City has brought exciting new menu items that blend local flavors with classic favorites. These recipes showcase innovative twists on beloved dishes.
Signature Kansas City Specials
KMO Burger, the Whataburger franchisee backed by Patrick Mahomes, has introduced exclusive menu items for Kansas City locations. The KC BBQ Burger features a smoky barbecue sauce inspired by the city’s famous pit masters.
A spicy jalapeño ranch dressing adds zest to the Touchdown Chicken Sandwich. This creation pays homage to Mahomes’ Texas roots and his adopted hometown.
The Arrowhead Fries come loaded with melted cheese, bacon bits, and a drizzle of the signature spicy ketchup. These fries have quickly become a game day favorite among local sports fans.
Cultural Infused Flavors
Whataburger’s new Kansas City menu incorporates regional tastes into their classic recipes. The Missouri Mud Pie Shake blends chocolate, coffee, and crushed cookies for a decadent treat.
The Crossroads Breakfast Bowl combines scrambled eggs, hash browns, and locally sourced sausage. It’s topped with a unique sauce that mixes Whataburger’s jalapeño ranch with KC-style barbecue sauce.
For those seeking heat, the Blazin’ BBQ Burger features ghost pepper cheese and a fiery barbecue sauce. It’s served with a side of cool jalapeño ranch for dipping.
Service Options
Whataburger Kansas City offers diverse dining and ordering options to cater to customer preferences. The restaurant chain prioritizes convenience and accessibility through its various service channels.
Dine-In Experience
Whataburger’s Kansas City locations provide a welcoming dining area for customers who prefer to enjoy their meals on-site. The restaurants feature comfortable seating and a clean environment. Amenities typically include free Wi-Fi and self-serve drink stations. Dining areas are designed to accommodate individuals, families, and small groups.
Customers can expect prompt service from friendly staff members. The dining rooms are open during regular business hours, though some locations may operate 24 hours a day. Holiday hours may vary, so it’s advisable to check with specific restaurants for their schedules during special occasions.
Convenience Services
Whataburger Kansas City emphasizes convenience through several service options. Many locations offer drive-thru service, allowing customers to order and receive their food without leaving their vehicles. This option is particularly popular for those seeking quick meals on-the-go.
Curbside pickup is available at select Whataburger restaurants in Kansas City. Customers can place orders in advance and have their meals brought directly to their cars upon arrival. This service combines the convenience of takeout with minimal contact.
Delivery services are also offered through various third-party platforms, enabling customers to enjoy Whataburger meals at home or work.
Digital Ordering
The Whataburger App serves as a central hub for digital ordering and customer rewards. Users can place orders for pickup or delivery directly through the app, streamlining the process and reducing wait times.
The app also features a rewards program where customers can earn points on their purchases. These points can be redeemed for free food items, adding value to frequent Whataburger patrons.
Digital menus and customization options within the app allow for easy order modifications. Customers can save their favorite orders for quick reordering in the future.
Payment through the app provides a contactless option, enhancing convenience and safety for users.
Locations and Accessibility
Whataburger has expanded rapidly across Kansas City, opening multiple locations to serve customers throughout the metro area. The chain strategically placed restaurants in key areas for convenient access.
Expansion in Kansas City
Whataburger launched an ambitious growth plan for Kansas City, aiming to open 12 new locations. The company hired over 400 local employees initially, with plans to create over 1,000 jobs in the area by 2022. New restaurants popped up in Blue Springs, Independence, Parkville, and Liberty.
The expansion focused on high-traffic areas and popular shopping centers. Metro North Crossing became home to one of the first Whataburger locations in the region. Other strategic spots included Ambassador Drive and Sterling Avenue.
Key Addresses
Several Whataburger restaurants now serve Kansas City residents:
- 4200 Sterling Ave, Kansas City, MO 64133
- 600 NW Barry Road, Kansas City, MO 64155
- North Booth Avenue (planned location)
- Missouri 45 (planned location)
- 135th St (planned location)
- Bannister Road (planned location)
These locations offer dine-in, drive-thru, and takeout options. Many are open 24 hours, providing late-night dining choices for Kansas City residents and visitors.
Promotions and Rewards
Whataburger offers an enticing rewards program for customers in Kansas City. The Whataburger Rewards app allows patrons to earn points on their purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items.
Members accumulate points faster than in previous programs. For every dollar spent, customers earn more rewards on average compared to the old visit-based system.
The app provides exclusive access to special offers and promotions. Rewards members receive curated deals tailored to their preferences.
Whataburger occasionally runs limited-time promotions with the chance to win big prizes. One recent contest offered the opportunity to win free Whataburger for a decade.
To participate in promotions and start earning rewards, customers can download the Whataburger app. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Key features of the Whataburger Rewards program:
- Earn points on purchases
- Redeem points for free food
- Exclusive offers for members
- Chances to win prizes
- Easy-to-use mobile app
The rewards program aims to enhance the dining experience for Whataburger’s loyal customers in Kansas City.
Whataburger and Community Engagement
Whataburger has made significant efforts to integrate into the Kansas City community since expanding to the area. The company focuses on building local partnerships and supporting events to establish strong community ties.
Partnerships with Local Entities
Whataburger has forged partnerships with key organizations in Kansas City. The company collaborates with local schools and universities to provide scholarships and support educational initiatives. Whataburger also works with food banks and hunger relief programs to address food insecurity in the region.
The fast-food chain has notably partnered with the Kansas City Chiefs. This collaboration includes promotional deals for fans and special menu items themed around the NFL team. Whataburger sponsors various Chiefs-related events and participates in charitable activities organized by the franchise.
Local businesses have also benefited from Whataburger’s presence. The company sources ingredients from area suppliers when possible, supporting the local economy. Additionally, Whataburger engages with nearby restaurants and shops for cross-promotional opportunities.
Events and Sponsorships
Whataburger actively participates in Kansas City’s community events. The company sponsors local festivals, parades, and cultural celebrations throughout the year. These sponsorships often include food donations, employee volunteering, and financial support.
Sports events are a key focus of Whataburger’s community engagement strategy. Beyond its partnership with the Chiefs, the company sponsors youth sports leagues and high school athletic programs. Whataburger provides refreshments at games and contributes to facility improvements.
The restaurant chain also organizes its own community events. These include family-friendly activities at store openings, customer appreciation days, and seasonal celebrations. Whataburger frequently hosts fundraisers for local charities, donating a portion of sales on specific days to worthy causes.
Desserts and Sides
Whataburger in Kansas City offers a tempting array of desserts and sides to complement their main menu items. Their dessert selection includes creamy milkshakes in various flavors, satisfying the sweet tooth of many customers.
For sides, Whataburger serves up crispy, golden fries that pair perfectly with their burgers. These fries can be ordered as part of a meal or separately.
Another popular side option is their onion rings, known for their crunchy exterior and flavorful onion interior. These provide a tasty alternative to fries for those seeking variety.
Whataburger also offers a selection of dipping sauces to enhance their sides. These sauces range from classic ketchup to more unique flavors, allowing customers to customize their dining experience.
The restaurant’s dessert menu extends beyond shakes, though specific options may vary by location. Customers can inquire about current dessert specials when visiting.
Portion sizes for sides are generally generous, making them suitable for sharing or satisfying larger appetites. Prices for desserts and sides are typically reasonable, offering good value for customers.
Operating Hours and Seasonal Variations
Whataburger in Kansas City operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This round-the-clock service ensures customers can satisfy their burger cravings at any time.
The restaurant’s commitment to 24/7 operations extends to most days of the year. However, holiday hours may differ from the regular schedule.
During major holidays, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, Whataburger may adjust its hours. Customers are advised to check with the specific location for any seasonal variations.
The 24-hour service applies to both dine-in and drive-thru options. Late-night patrons can enjoy the full menu regardless of the time.
Whataburger’s extended hours cater to various customer needs:
- Early risers seeking breakfast
- Lunch and dinner crowds
- Late-night diners after events or shifts
For accurate and up-to-date information on operating hours, especially during holidays, customers can:
- Call the restaurant directly
- Check the official Whataburger website
- Use the Whataburger mobile app
These resources provide the most current details on any temporary changes to the regular 24-hour schedule.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
Whataburger’s Kansas City locations have received mixed reviews from customers. Some patrons praise the restaurant’s signature large burgers and diverse menu options.
The 24/7 availability of Whataburger’s Kansas City outlets is appreciated by many late-night diners. This round-the-clock service caters to various schedules and cravings.
Several customers have highlighted the quality of ingredients used in Whataburger’s offerings. Fresh vegetables and well-seasoned meats are often mentioned as positives.
However, some reviews indicate inconsistencies in service quality. Long wait times during peak hours have been a point of frustration for certain customers.
A few patrons have expressed disappointment with their overall dining experience, citing issues with order accuracy or customer service. These negative experiences have led some to state they won’t return.
Despite mixed feedback, many Kansas City residents express excitement about having Whataburger in their city. The chain’s reputation from other regions has created high expectations among local burger enthusiasts.
Customer opinions on Whataburger’s fries and sides are varied. While some enjoy these offerings, others prefer the burgers as the standout menu item.