Whataburger stands out as a beloved fast-food chain known for its made-to-order burgers and extensive menu options. Founded in Texas in 1950, this regional favorite has grown to over 735 locations across the southern United States. Whataburger offers a wide range of affordable meal choices, from classic burgers to chicken sandwiches and breakfast items, all customizable with over 36,864 topping combinations.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and fresh preparation sets it apart from many competitors. Whataburger’s menu includes popular items like the Double Meat Whataburger and the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Prices remain competitive with other major fast-food chains, making Whataburger an accessible choice for budget-conscious diners.
In response to changing consumer needs, Whataburger continues to innovate its offerings. The chain provides convenient ordering options, including online ordering with curbside pickup and delivery services. This adaptability ensures Whataburger remains a go-to choice for fast-food enthusiasts seeking quality meals at reasonable prices.
History and Origin
Whataburger’s story began in 1950 with a vision for a better burger. The Texas-based chain rapidly expanded across the state and beyond, becoming a beloved regional icon known for its made-to-order burgers and distinctive orange-and-white striped buildings.
Harmon Dobson’s Vision
Harmon Dobson, a shrewd entrepreneur, founded Whataburger in Corpus Christi, Texas. He partnered with Paul Burton to open the first restaurant on August 8, 1950. Dobson’s goal was simple yet revolutionary: create a burger so big it took two hands to hold and so good that customers would exclaim, “What a burger!”
The original Whataburger sold for 25 cents and featured a quarter-pound patty on a 5-inch bun. This sizeable offering set it apart from competitors and quickly gained a loyal following. Dobson’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction laid the foundation for the chain’s future success.
Expansion in Texas and Beyond
Whataburger’s popularity in Corpus Christi led to rapid growth. By 1960, there were 17 restaurants across Texas. The company introduced its iconic A-frame buildings with orange and white stripes in 1961, making the restaurants easily recognizable.
The 1970s saw further expansion and menu innovations. Whataburger added items like the Whataburger Jr., jalapeños, and onion rings. By 1980, the chain celebrated its 300th restaurant opening.
Whataburger’s growth continued beyond Texas, spreading to other Southern states. The company maintained its family-owned status until 2019, when it was acquired by a private equity firm. Today, Whataburger operates over 800 locations across 10 states, remaining true to its roots of serving made-to-order burgers 24/7.
Menu Overview
Whataburger’s menu offers a diverse selection of fast-food options, ranging from classic burgers to breakfast items and healthier alternatives. The menu caters to various tastes and dietary preferences, with customizable options and signature flavors.
Burgers and Sandwiches
Whataburger’s signature item is the Whataburger, a classic beef patty on a toasted bun. The menu features several variations, including the Double Meat Whataburger and the Triple Meat Whataburger for heartier appetites.
Specialty burgers like the Jalapeño & Cheese Whataburger add unique flavors. The Patty Melt, served on Texas Toast, offers a twist on the traditional burger.
For those seeking alternatives, the menu includes fish sandwiches and grilled chicken options. The Whatachick’n Sandwich provides a crispy chicken option.
Breakfast Selections
Whataburger serves breakfast from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. daily. The Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is a fan favorite, featuring a crispy chicken strip on a buttermilk biscuit with honey butter sauce.
Other breakfast items include:
- Breakfast on a Bun (egg, cheese, choice of bacon or sausage)
- Taquitos with cheese, potato, bacon, or sausage
- Pancake Platter
- Biscuits and Gravy
Chicken Choices
Whataburger offers various chicken options beyond sandwiches. The Whatachick’n Strips meal includes three crispy chicken strips with gravy for dipping.
Grilled chicken sandwiches provide a lighter alternative. The Grilled Chicken Melt combines grilled chicken with monterey jack cheese on Texas Toast.
For spice lovers, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich delivers a kick with its seasoned breading and spicy mayo.
Sides and Snacks
Whataburger’s sides complement their main dishes:
- French Fries
- Onion Rings
- Apple Slices
- Side Salad
The chain also offers Whatachick’n Bites as a snack or small meal option. These bite-sized chicken pieces come with a choice of dipping sauce.
Salads and Healthy Options
For health-conscious diners, Whataburger provides several salad options:
- Garden Salad
- Apple & Cranberry Salad
- Grilled Chicken Salad
These salads can be customized with various dressings. The menu also includes a Grilled Chicken Sandwich for a leaner protein option.
Drinks and Shakes
Whataburger offers a range of beverages to accompany meals:
- Soft drinks
- Iced tea (sweetened and unsweetened)
- Coffee
- Milk
The chain is known for its hand-spun shakes, available in vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry flavors. Seasonal flavors are often introduced as limited-time offerings.
Desserts and Treats
To satisfy sweet cravings, Whataburger’s dessert menu includes:
- Hot Apple Pies
- Cinnamon Rolls
- Cookies (chocolate chunk or sugar)
The Whataburger Jr. with small fries and a drink is part of the kids’ menu, catering to younger customers. This option provides a smaller portion size suitable for children.
Signature Meals
Whataburger’s signature meals showcase their most beloved menu items. These carefully crafted combinations highlight the chain’s commitment to flavor and quality.
The Iconic Whataburger
The original Whataburger stands as the cornerstone of the menu. This classic burger features a 100% beef patty on a toasted 5-inch bun. It comes with mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions.
For heartier appetites, the Triple Meat Whataburger offers three beef patties stacked high. Both options can be customized with cheese, bacon, or jalapeños.
The Whataburger Jr. provides a smaller version of the original, perfect for lighter meals or kids. It maintains the same fresh ingredients and flavor profile as its larger counterpart.
Chicken Specialties
Whataburger’s chicken offerings rival their beef selections in popularity. The Whatachick’n Sandwich features a breaded chicken filet with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo on a toasted bun.
For a zesty twist, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich adds jalapeño ranch and monterey jack cheese. The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich combines sweet and savory flavors.
Grilled chicken options are available for those seeking a lighter meal. These can be ordered as sandwiches or salads.
Breakfast Favorites
Whataburger’s breakfast menu shines with its Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. This sweet and savory combination pairs a crispy chicken strip with honey butter on a fresh-baked biscuit.
The Breakfast on a Bun offers a classic start to the day. It includes a choice of sausage or bacon with egg and cheese on a toasted bun.
For those craving Tex-Mex flavors, the Taquito with Cheese wraps scrambled eggs, cheese, and a choice of bacon, sausage, or potato in a warm tortilla. These breakfast items are served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.
Nutritional Information
Whataburger meals offer a range of calorie counts and dietary options. Understanding the nutritional content can help customers make informed choices based on their dietary needs and preferences.
Calorie Content
A standard Whataburger meal contains approximately 1330 calories. This typically includes a burger, fries, and a drink. The calorie distribution is roughly 34% from fat and 56% from carbohydrates.
To burn off these calories, one would need to run for 117 minutes or walk for 190 minutes.
Customers can opt for lower-calorie alternatives by choosing junior-sized sandwiches or skipping the fries. Selecting water or diet soda as a beverage can further reduce calorie intake.
Dietary Options
Whataburger provides nutritional information for all menu items, allowing customers to tailor their meals to specific dietary requirements.
The menu includes options for those seeking lower-fat or lower-carb choices. For example, selecting a junior-sized sandwich without cheese or mayo can significantly reduce fat content.
Vegetarian options are limited, but customers can request burgers without meat patties. For those watching sodium intake, it’s advisable to check the nutritional information, as some menu items may be high in salt.
Whataburger’s website and mobile app offer a nutrition calculator, enabling customers to customize their orders and view the resulting nutritional values.
Dining Experience
Whataburger offers a welcoming atmosphere and efficient service to enhance customers’ meals. The restaurant caters to individuals and groups with various menu options and deals.
Restaurant Atmosphere
Whataburger provides a comfortable dining environment for customers to enjoy their meals. Many locations feature spacious seating areas with booths and tables suitable for different group sizes. The decor often includes bright orange and white colors, reflecting the brand’s signature look.
Cleanliness is a priority, with staff regularly maintaining dining areas and restrooms. Restaurants typically have a casual, family-friendly vibe, making them suitable for quick meals or leisurely dining experiences.
Ordering and Service
Whataburger’s ordering process is straightforward and efficient. Customers can place orders at the counter or drive-thru. Digital menu boards display available items, including Combo Meals for convenient ordering.
The staff is trained to be prompt and courteous, ensuring a smooth experience from order placement to meal delivery. For families, the Kids Menu offers child-friendly portions and options. Groups can take advantage of the Family Fry Box for sharing.
Many locations provide self-serve drink stations, allowing customers to refill beverages as needed. Some restaurants offer table service, where staff members bring food directly to seated customers.
Customization Options
Whataburger offers extensive personalization choices for their meals. Customers can tailor burgers, sandwiches, and combo options to suit their tastes and preferences.
Burger Toppings and Varieties
Whataburger’s burgers can be customized with a variety of toppings. Patrons can add cheese, bacon, or jalapeños for an extra charge. Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles are standard options.
Sauce selections include mustard, mayo, and Whataburger’s signature creamy pepper sauce. For those seeking spice, grilled peppers and onions are available.
Bun choices range from Texas Toast to wheat buns. Patty options include single, double, or triple meat. Customers can also request a bunless burger for a low-carb alternative.
Mix and Match Meals
Whataburger’s Whatameal combos allow for flexibility in meal selection. Customers can pair their favorite sandwich with sides and a drink.
Side options include fries, onion rings, or apple slices. Drink choices range from sodas to shakes and malts.
For those with specific dietary needs, grilled chicken can be substituted in most combos. Salads are also available as a healthier alternative.
The “Secret Menu” offers unique combinations like the Hulk, a green chile double cheeseburger with extra patties. These off-menu items provide additional customization for adventurous eaters.
Promotions and Offers
Whataburger offers a variety of promotions and discounts to provide value to customers. These include limited-time seasonal deals and ongoing savings opportunities on menu items.
Seasonal Specials
Whataburger’s Summer of Savings brings exciting limited-time deals during the warmer months. Customers can enjoy special pricing on popular menu items and combo meals. The promotion typically features discounts on signature burgers, sides, and drinks.
Holiday-themed offers also appear throughout the year. These may include festive menu items or promotional pricing tied to specific events or seasons. Whataburger often introduces new or returning favorites as part of these seasonal promotions.
Regular Discounts
Whataburger provides ongoing savings opportunities for budget-conscious diners. The restaurant offers affordable Kids Meals that include a main item, side, and drink. These meals are designed to provide good value for families.
Combo meals bundle popular items at a discounted price compared to ordering items separately. Whataburger Menu Prices for combos typically offer savings on a burger, fries, and drink combination.
Some locations may offer student or senior discounts with valid ID. Customers can check with their local Whataburger for specific offers and requirements. Joining Whataburger’s email list or mobile app may provide access to exclusive coupons and deals.
Brand Merchandise
Whataburger offers a wide range of branded merchandise for fans to showcase their love for the fast-food chain. The company’s iconic orange-and-white color scheme and “flying W” logo feature prominently across their product line.
Apparel and Accessories
Whataburger’s apparel collection includes t-shirts, hats, and socks adorned with the brand’s logo and slogans. The WHATASTORE offers a variety of styles, from classic logo tees to themed designs like the 2024 Christmas Sweater.
Accessories such as hats and drinkware are also popular items. The 40oz Striped Tumbler allows customers to carry their favorite Whataburger beverages in style.
For those seeking comfort, the brand offers sweatshirts and hoodies perfect for cooler weather. These items often feature limited-edition designs, appealing to collectors and loyal fans alike.
Gift Cards and Collectibles
Whataburger gift cards make ideal presents for burger enthusiasts. These can be purchased in various denominations and used at any Whataburger location.
Collectible items include unique pieces like the Whataburger White Ceramic Tree, perfect for holiday decorations. The BRXLZ® Whataburger Food Truck offers a fun building experience for fans of all ages.
Whataburger also produces specialty items such as branded signs and home goods. These products allow customers to bring a piece of their favorite restaurant into their homes.
The brand occasionally releases limited-edition collectibles, creating excitement among dedicated fans and collectors.
Community Engagement
Whataburger actively participates in local initiatives and charitable activities, demonstrating a strong commitment to the communities it serves. The company focuses on addressing food insecurity and supporting education through various programs and partnerships.
Local Partnerships
Whataburger collaborates with local sports teams and events to strengthen its ties to the community. The company sponsors Texas high school football games, fostering a connection with local youth and their families. These partnerships extend beyond sports, with Whataburger engaging in local festivals and cultural events.
The restaurant chain also works with area schools and colleges. It provides support for educational programs and campus activities, helping to create a positive impact on students’ lives.
Charitable Activities
Whataburger’s signature community program, Feeding Student Success, targets the intersection of food insecurity and education. The company has donated $100,000 to Communities In Schools, the largest single contribution it has made to the organization.
This initiative supports college resource rooms and scholarships, helping students access necessary resources for their education. Whataburger also partners with food banks to address hunger in local communities.
The company organizes volunteer opportunities for its employees through the Whataburger Serves program. This initiative enables staff to participate in community service projects, ranging from food bank assistance to other local charitable endeavors.
Customer Resources
Whataburger provides comprehensive resources to help customers make informed choices and receive assistance. The company offers detailed nutrition information and maintains multiple channels for customer support.
Nutrition and Allergen Information
Whataburger’s website features a detailed nutrition guide for its menu items. Customers can access calorie counts, macronutrient breakdowns, and allergen information for each product. The guide includes customization options, allowing diners to calculate nutritional values for modified orders.
Whataburger also offers a downloadable PDF with complete ingredient lists. This resource is particularly useful for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or food allergies. The company regularly updates this information to reflect menu changes and new offerings.
Customer Support and Feedback
Whataburger maintains several avenues for customer support and feedback. The company operates a customer care hotline at 1-800-628-7437, where guests can speak directly with representatives. For non-urgent matters, customers can submit inquiries or comments through the Whataburger website.
The Whataburger Customer Survey provides an opportunity for guests to share their dining experiences. This feedback helps the company improve its services and menu offerings. Whataburger also uses social media platforms to engage with customers and address concerns promptly.
In case of emergencies or special circumstances, Whataburger has established a Human Resources Hotline at 1-800-624-7090, option 9. This service is available for those impacted by disasters or tragedies, demonstrating the company’s commitment to supporting its community.