Whataburger, the beloved Texas-based fast food chain, has spread its orange-and-white-striped wings across the United States. With over 700 locations, fans of the bigger, better burger can now satisfy their cravings in multiple states. Whataburger’s official website offers a convenient locator tool to help customers find the nearest restaurant.
The chain’s expansion has brought its signature menu items to new regions, delighting burger enthusiasts beyond the Lone Star State. Whataburger’s commitment to using 100% pure American beef and serving it on a toasted five-inch bun has earned it a loyal following. The locator feature makes it easy for both longtime fans and curious newcomers to experience Whataburger’s offerings.
As Whataburger continues to grow, more cities are gaining access to its fast food delights. The company’s website keeps an up-to-date list of all locations, including new openings. This allows customers to stay informed about Whataburger’s presence in their area and plan their visits accordingly.
History of Whataburger
Whataburger’s story began in 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first restaurant in Corpus Christi, Texas. His vision was to create a burger so big that it required two hands to hold and would make customers exclaim “What a burger!”
The company experienced rapid growth in its early years. By the 1960s, Whataburger had expanded beyond Texas, opening locations in Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona.
The 1970s brought significant milestones for Whataburger. Under Grace Dobson’s leadership, the number of restaurants doubled to over 200. In 1971, the first drive-thru was installed, revolutionizing customer service.
Menu innovations played a crucial role in Whataburger’s success. The Whataburger Jr. was introduced in the 1970s, along with jalapeños and onion rings. In 1983, breakfast items and the Whatachick’n sandwich joined the menu.
Whataburger continued to evolve in the 1980s. In 1982, three Corpus Christi locations began offering 24/7 service, a practice that later became standard across the chain.
The company moved its headquarters to San Antonio in 2009, solidifying its Texas roots. In 2019, the Dobson family sold their majority stake to BDT Capital Partners, marking a new chapter in Whataburger’s history.
Today, Whataburger remains a beloved fast-food chain, known for its made-to-order burgers and iconic orange-and-white-striped restaurants.
Whataburger’s Expansion
Whataburger is rapidly expanding beyond its Texas roots, bringing its popular burgers to new markets across the United States. The iconic chain is targeting growth in the South, Midwest, and several new states.
Expansion in the South
Whataburger is strengthening its presence in the Southern states. The company is opening new locations in Florida, with plans for restaurants in the Tampa Bay area and 12 franchises in Jacksonville. Georgia and South Carolina are also on the expansion radar.
Alabama has seen new Whataburger locations pop up recently. The chain is exploring opportunities in Tennessee, aiming to satisfy burger enthusiasts in major cities like Nashville and Memphis.
Whataburger continues to grow in its home state of Texas, adding more restaurants to meet increasing demand.
Midwest Growth
Whataburger is making significant inroads into the Midwest region. Kansas and Missouri are key targets for expansion. New locations are planned for:
- Olathe, Kansas (14123 W 135th St)
- Kansas City, Missouri (4200 Sterling Ave & Interstate 70)
- Grandview, Missouri (12416 S US Hwy 71)
These strategic openings will introduce Whataburger’s signature flavors to a new customer base in the heartland.
New Locations and States
Whataburger is venturing into entirely new territories. The company has announced plans to open a restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip, marking its entry into Nevada.
Other states in Whataburger’s expansion plans include:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- New Mexico
For the first time in almost 20 years, Whataburger is franchising its restaurants. This approach will accelerate growth and allow the chain to reach more communities quickly.
The company is committed to investing in local economies by creating job opportunities in each new location it opens.
Exploring the Menu
Whataburger‘s menu offers a diverse selection of burgers, sandwiches, and other fast food favorites. The chain is known for its customizable options and 24/7 availability at many locations.
Burgers and Sandwiches
Whataburger’s signature item is the Whataburger, a 100% pure beef patty served on a large, toasted five-inch bun. Customers can customize their burgers with various toppings and sauces.
The menu features several burger variations, including:
- Double Meat Whataburger
- Triple Meat Whataburger
- Bacon & Cheese Whataburger
For chicken lovers, options include:
- Whatachick’n Sandwich
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Whataburger also offers fish sandwiches and patty melts for those seeking alternatives to traditional burgers.
New Menu Items
Whataburger regularly introduces new items to keep their menu fresh and exciting. Recent additions have included:
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich
- Hatch Green Chile Bacon Burger (seasonal)
- Breakfast Burger (available during breakfast hours)
These limited-time offerings often feature regional flavors or innovative combinations to appeal to diverse tastes.
The chain also experiments with new side items and desserts, such as:
- Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
- Dr Pepper Shake
24/7 Service Offerings
Many Whataburger locations operate 24 hours a day, providing a full menu around the clock. This includes:
- Breakfast items (typically served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.)
- Lunch and dinner options available all day
Popular 24/7 choices include:
- Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit
- Taquito with Cheese
- All-Time Favorites like the Patty Melt and Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich
The availability of breakfast items during late-night hours has made Whataburger a favorite among night owls and early risers alike.
Ordering Experience
Whataburger offers multiple convenient ways for customers to place orders and enjoy their meals. The restaurant chain prioritizes ease of use and efficiency in its ordering systems, both in-store and through digital platforms.
In-Store Ordering
Whataburger’s in-store ordering process is straightforward and customer-friendly. Patrons can approach the counter and place their orders directly with staff members. The menu boards display a wide variety of options, including customizable burgers, sides, and beverages.
For drive-thru customers, Whataburger provides clear signage and easy-to-read menu boards. The drive-thru lanes are designed for quick service, allowing customers to place and receive orders efficiently.
Many locations offer self-service kiosks inside the restaurant. These touchscreen interfaces enable customers to browse the menu, customize their orders, and pay without waiting in line.
Mobile App and Rewards
The Whataburger mobile app enhances the ordering experience with its user-friendly interface. Customers can place orders for pickup or delivery directly through the app. The app’s geolocate feature helps users find the nearest Whataburger location quickly.
One of the app’s key features is the ability to customize orders in detail. Users can add or remove ingredients, select portion sizes, and make special requests with ease.
The app also integrates a rewards program. Customers earn points on their purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items. The program offers exclusive deals and promotions to app users, encouraging customer loyalty.
Digital gift cards are available through the app, allowing users to share the Whataburger experience with friends and family. This feature adds a personal touch to gift-giving while promoting the brand.
Whataburger’s Commitment to Community
Whataburger demonstrates a strong dedication to community engagement through various initiatives. The company’s signature program, Feeding Student Success, focuses on addressing food insecurity and supporting education.
This program establishes college resource rooms and provides scholarships to students in need. By targeting these areas, Whataburger aims to make a meaningful impact on local communities.
The fast-food chain also organizes volunteer opportunities for its employees, known as Family Members. Through the Whataburger Serves program, staff can participate in community service projects.
These projects range from local clean-up efforts to supporting charitable organizations. This approach allows Whataburger to foster a sense of purpose among its workforce while giving back to the communities it serves.
Whataburger’s community involvement extends beyond organized programs. The company strives to create meaningful connections in the areas where it operates, recognizing the importance of being a good corporate citizen.
By combining community service with its commitment to quality food and hospitality, Whataburger has established a strong local presence in its markets. This approach helps build customer loyalty and reinforces the brand’s values.
Career Opportunities
Whataburger offers exciting career paths across its restaurant locations in 14 states. The company provides competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages to attract top talent.
Leadership development is a key focus at Whataburger. Employees can take advantage of training programs to climb the corporate ladder and advance their careers in restaurant management.
Entry-level positions are available for those looking to start in the food service industry. These roles offer valuable experience and the potential for growth within the company.
Field opportunities include:
- Restaurant Team Members
- Shift Leaders
- Restaurant Managers
- Area Managers
Corporate careers are also available at Whataburger’s headquarters, covering departments like:
- Marketing
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
Whataburger emphasizes a family-like work culture. The company strives to instill positive values and transferable skills in its employees.
Career advancement opportunities exist for motivated individuals. Whataburger promotes from within when possible, allowing employees to progress their careers over time.
Merchandise and Brand Extension
Whataburger has expanded its offerings beyond restaurant walls, allowing fans to showcase their love for the brand through various products. The company’s merchandise and retail items range from apparel to condiments, extending the Whataburger experience into homes and everyday life.
Whatastore Offerings
Whataburger’s official online store, the Whatastore, offers a wide array of branded merchandise. Fans can purchase t-shirts, hats, and other apparel featuring the iconic Whataburger logo and designs. The store also sells drinkware, including cups and tumblers, perfect for enjoying beverages at home or on the go.
Accessories like phone cases, keychains, and stickers are available for those who want to add a touch of Whataburger flair to their personal items. The Whatastore’s product line reflects a design philosophy centered on simplicity and nostalgia, appealing to loyal customers who want to display their affection for the brand.
Grocery Product Lines
Whataburger has ventured into grocery stores with a line of condiments and food items. Customers can find Whataburger’s famous ketchup, spicy ketchup, and other sauces in select retail locations. These products allow fans to recreate the Whataburger taste experience at home.
The grocery line extends beyond condiments to include items like potato chips and breakfast sausage. By offering these products in stores, Whataburger increases brand visibility and provides customers with opportunities to enjoy familiar flavors outside of restaurant visits.
Whataburger’s retail strategy includes geotargeted promotions and partnerships with social media influencers to drive awareness and sales of their merchandise and grocery items.
Customer Engagement and Feedback
Whataburger prioritizes customer engagement through various channels. The company offers a customer survey at whataburgervisit.com, allowing diners to share their experiences.
Participants can earn coupons for free burgers by providing feedback. This incentivizes customers to offer insights that help shape the brand’s future.
The fast-food chain has recently revamped its loyalty program. This enhancement aims to boost customer satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.
Whataburger’s mobile app plays a crucial role in customer engagement. It provides a convenient platform for ordering, accessing rewards, and staying updated on promotions.
The company maintains an active presence on social media platforms. This allows for direct communication with customers and helps build a sense of community around the brand.
Whataburger also engages with local communities through sponsorships and events. These initiatives foster goodwill and strengthen the brand’s connection with its customer base.
Regular menu updates and limited-time offers keep customers interested and provide opportunities for feedback on new items. This approach helps Whataburger stay responsive to evolving consumer preferences.