Whataburger, a beloved fast food chain founded in Corpus Christi, Texas, has been serving up iconic burgers and more since 1950. Started by Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton, this Texas-born institution has grown to become a regional favorite across the southern United States. Whataburger’s menu offers a wide range of options, with prices typically ranging from $3 to $8 for individual items and $7 to $12 for combo meals.
The chain is known for its customizable burgers, made-to-order with fresh ingredients. Whataburger’s menu extends beyond burgers, featuring chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, and salads. The company regularly updates its offerings to keep up with changing tastes and trends.
Whataburger has embraced digital ordering, allowing customers to place orders online for pickup or delivery. This convenience, combined with their commitment to quality and value, has helped Whataburger maintain its popularity in an increasingly competitive fast food market.
History and Background
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 customers would exclaim “What a burger!” upon first bite.
The company grew steadily throughout the 1950s and 1960s. By 1967, Whataburger had expanded to 40 locations across Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona.
Tragedy struck in 1967 when Harmon Dobson died in a plane crash. His wife Grace took over leadership, keeping the business in the family.
The 1970s saw menu expansions with items like the Whataburger Jr. and new toppings. In 1980, Whataburger celebrated its 300th restaurant opening.
Whataburger continued innovating in the following decades. In 2008, Hurricane Ike forced the relocation of company headquarters from Corpus Christi to San Antonio.
After nearly 70 years of family ownership, the Dobsons sold Whataburger to BDT Capital Partners in 2019. Despite the change in ownership, Whataburger maintains its Texas roots and commitment to quality.
Today, Whataburger operates over 800 locations across 10 states, serving its signature made-to-order burgers and other menu items 24 hours a day.
Menu Overview
Whataburger offers a diverse selection of fast food options, ranging from classic burgers to chicken sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The menu features high-quality ingredients and customizable options to satisfy various tastes and preferences.
Burgers
Whataburger’s signature item is its namesake burger, available in several variations. The Double Meat Whataburger is a popular choice, featuring two beef patties. The Whataburger Jr. provides a smaller option for those with lighter appetites.
Specialty burgers include the Whataburger Patty Melt and Monterey Melt. These offer unique flavor combinations with melted cheese, grilled onions, and special sauces.
Customers can customize their burgers with additional toppings and condiments. Whataburger uses 100% pure beef patties, cooked to order for each customer.
Chicken Selections
Whataburger’s chicken menu features several options. The Whatachick’n Sandwich comes grilled or crispy. For spice lovers, there’s the Spicy Chicken Sandwich.
A standout item is the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich. It combines crispy chicken strips with a sweet and tangy sauce.
Grilled chicken sandwiches offer a lighter alternative. These use a marinated chicken breast fillet.
All-Time Favorites
This category includes Whataburger’s most beloved menu items. The Whataburger Patty Melt combines beef, cheese, and grilled onions on Texas toast.
The Monterey Melt features two beef patties with jalapeños and a special sauce. It’s a favorite among those who enjoy a spicy kick.
These items have stood the test of time and remain consistently popular among Whataburger fans.
Fresh Salads
For health-conscious diners, Whataburger offers fresh salad options. The Garden Salad provides a mix of crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
The Cobb Salad includes grilled chicken, bacon, and blue cheese crumbles. It offers a heartier option for those seeking a more substantial salad.
Salads come with a choice of dressings. Grilled chicken can be added to any salad for extra protein.
Sides and Snacks
Whataburger’s sides complement their main dishes. French Fries are a classic choice, crispy and golden.
Onion Rings offer a flavorful alternative. They’re battered and fried to a perfect crunch.
For breakfast, Hash Brown Sticks are available. These potato bites are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Sides can be ordered individually or as part of a combo meal.
Desserts and Shakes
Whataburger’s dessert menu satisfies sweet cravings. The Apple Pie is a warm, flaky pastry filled with spiced apples.
Cinnamon Rolls provide a gooey, cinnamon-sugar treat. Cookies and Brownies are also available for a quick sweet bite.
Shakes come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. They’re made with real ice cream for a thick, creamy texture.
These desserts offer a sweet end to any Whataburger meal.
Breakfast Menu
Whataburger’s breakfast menu offers a diverse selection of hearty and satisfying options to start your day. From classic favorites to unique signature items, there’s something to please every palate.
Classic Breakfast Items
The Breakfast on a Bun is a popular choice, featuring a savory sausage patty or crispy bacon with eggs and cheese on a toasted bun. Prices start at around $3.99. For those seeking a handheld option, the Egg and Cheese Biscuit provides a delicious combination of fluffy scrambled eggs and melted cheese nestled in a warm, buttery biscuit.
The Pancake Platter is perfect for those with a sweet tooth, offering a stack of golden pancakes served with butter and syrup for approximately $4.55. Customers can also opt for the Breakfast Platter, which includes eggs, hash browns, and a choice of meat.
Signature Morning Selections
Whataburger’s Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is a fan favorite, combining a crispy chicken strip with sweet honey butter sauce on a soft biscuit. This unique creation is priced around $3.99. The Breakfast Burger is another standout item, featuring a beef patty topped with a fresh egg, cheese, and hash browns.
For those seeking a Tex-Mex twist, the Taquito with Cheese offers scrambled eggs and cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla. Prices for taquitos start at about $3.99. Customize your breakfast with add-ons like jalapenos or extra cheese.
Sides and Beverages
No breakfast is complete without sides and drinks. Whataburger’s crispy Hash Browns are a popular choice, perfectly golden and served hot. Prices for sides typically range from $1.00 to $2.50.
To accompany your meal, choose from a variety of beverages:
- Fresh-brewed Coffee (hot or iced)
- Hot Chocolate
- Orange Juice
- Milk
Sizes and prices vary, with small drinks starting around $1.50. Combo meals are available, offering a main item with a side and drink at a discounted price.
Kids Menu
Whataburger offers a variety of kid-friendly options at affordable prices. The Kids Menu features smaller portions and fun meals designed to appeal to younger diners.
Kids Meals Options
Whataburger’s Kids Menu includes several popular choices. The Justaburger Kid’s Meal is priced at $6.28 and provides a satisfying option for young burger lovers. For chicken fans, the Whatachick’n Strips come in two sizes – a 2-piece meal for $6.52 and a 3-piece meal for $7.01.
Kids with simpler tastes can enjoy the Grilled Cheese Kids Whatameal for $6.21. Each Kids Meal typically includes fries and a drink, making them a complete and convenient choice for families.
For a sweet treat, children can add a Cinnamon Roll to their meal for $3.25. These options ensure that young diners have access to tasty, right-sized portions during their Whataburger visit.
Beverages and Drinks
Whataburger offers a diverse range of beverages to complement their menu items. From classic soft drinks to creamy shakes, customers can find refreshing options to quench their thirst.
Soft Drink Selections
Whataburger’s drink menu features a variety of popular soft drinks. Customers can choose from Coca-Cola products, including Coke, Diet Coke, and Sprite. Dr Pepper and its diet version are also available.
Iced tea lovers can enjoy freshly brewed unsweetened or sweet tea. For those seeking a caffeine boost, hot coffee and iced coffee are on offer.
Drink sizes come in small, medium, and large. As of December 2024, a medium soft drink is priced around $1.79, while a large costs approximately $1.99.
Milkshakes and Malts
Whataburger is known for its creamy milkshakes and malts. These indulgent treats come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
Shakes and malts are available in medium size only. Prices for medium shakes and malts typically range from $2.59 to $2.79.
Seasonal flavors may be introduced throughout the year, offering customers unique limited-time options. These special flavors often align with holidays or seasonal themes.
Whataburger’s shakes are made with real ice cream, giving them a rich and satisfying taste. The malts offer a slightly thicker consistency with the addition of malted milk powder.
Nutritional Information
Whataburger provides detailed nutritional information for its menu items. This allows customers to make informed choices about their meals.
The classic Whataburger contains 590 calories, 25 grams of fat, and 29 grams of protein. For those seeking a heartier option, the Double Meat Whataburger packs 830 calories, 44 grams of fat, and 47 grams of protein.
Whataburger’s website and mobile app offer a nutrition calculator. This tool helps customers customize their orders and view the nutritional impact of additions or substitutions.
The restaurant chain also caters to various dietary needs. Many locations offer lettuce-wrapped burgers for low-carb diets. Grilled chicken sandwiches are available as a leaner protein option.
Sodium content is a consideration for some diners. The original Whataburger contains 1220 mg of sodium, while the Double Meat version has 1470 mg.
Whataburger’s menu includes options for those watching their calorie intake. Grilled chicken salads and junior-sized burgers are among the lower-calorie choices available.
Pricing and Meal Options
Whataburger offers a range of affordable menu items and value-packed meal options. Customers can choose from individual burgers, combo meals, and family-sized portions to suit their preferences and budget.
Individual Menu Prices
Whataburger’s menu features a variety of individually priced items. The classic Whataburger starts at $3.09, while specialty options like the Jalapeño & Cheese Whataburger cost $4.09. For bigger appetites, the Double Meat Whataburger is priced at $4.59, and the Triple Meat Whataburger comes in at $6.09.
Side items are also available separately. French fries start at $2.89, and drinks range from $2.00 to $3.00. Desserts and snacks begin at $1.92, providing sweet treats at wallet-friendly prices.
Combo Meals and Deals
Whataburger’s Whatameal® combos offer excellent value. These meals include a burger, fries, and a drink. The classic Whataburger meal is priced at $5.59, while the Double Meat Whataburger meal costs $6.74. The Triple Meat Whataburger meal, a hearty option, is available for $7.89.
For families or larger groups, Whataburger provides Family-Size Drink options and a Family Fry Box. These shareable portions allow customers to enjoy their favorites at a more economical price point. The menu also includes chicken dishes starting at $7.13 and salads from $6.28, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Dining Experience
Whataburger offers a unique fast-food experience with customizable options and efficient service. The restaurant caters to individual preferences and group orders, providing both standard menu items and secret offerings.
Ordering and Services
Whataburger’s ordering process is straightforward and customer-friendly. Patrons can place orders at the counter, drive-thru, or through digital platforms. The restaurant’s commitment to freshness means each burger is made to order.
Service is generally prompt, with staff trained to handle special requests. For large groups, Whataburger offers group ordering options, simplifying the process for parties and events.
Featured items are prominently displayed, making it easy for customers to try new offerings or seasonal specials. Whataburger locations maintain consistent quality and service standards across their restaurants.
Secret Menu and Special Requests
Whataburger’s secret menu adds an element of excitement for adventurous diners. This unofficial menu includes unique combinations and modifications of standard items.
Popular secret menu items include the “Hulk”, a green-tinted vanilla milkshake mixed with fruit flavors. Another favorite is the “Whatachick’n-Strip Sandwich”, combining chicken strips with a regular bun.
Customers can also create their own combinations by mixing and matching ingredients. The restaurant’s willingness to accommodate special requests allows for extensive customization.
Some locations offer Whatawings, a lesser-known menu item that provides a chicken alternative to burgers. These wings come in various flavors, adding diversity to the typical Whataburger experience.
Corporate Responsibility
Whataburger demonstrates its commitment to corporate responsibility through various initiatives and community involvement programs. The company focuses on making a positive impact in the areas where it operates.
One key initiative is Whataburger’s Feeding Student Success program. This effort aims to support education by providing resources and opportunities for students in need.
The company also engages in local charitable activities. Whataburger regularly partners with food banks and other organizations to address hunger in communities.
Environmental sustainability is another area of focus. Whataburger has implemented measures to reduce waste and improve energy efficiency in its restaurants.
The company’s employee development programs reflect its commitment to workforce well-being. These initiatives include training opportunities and career advancement pathways for team members.
Whataburger also supports first responders and military personnel through various recognition and appreciation events. These efforts demonstrate the company’s dedication to honoring those who serve their communities.
In times of crisis, Whataburger has stepped up to provide assistance. The company has offered food and resources to communities affected by natural disasters.
Through these corporate responsibility efforts, Whataburger strives to be a positive force in the communities it serves.