Whataburger has become a beloved fast-food institution, known for its signature burgers and Texas roots. With over 700 locations across the United States, finding a nearby Whataburger is easier than ever. The chain offers a convenient location finder on their website, allowing customers to quickly search for the nearest restaurant by entering their address or zip code.
Whataburger’s expansion continues, with plans to open stores in 32 new cities. This growth means more people will have the opportunity to experience the chain’s famous 100% pure American beef burgers served on toasted five-inch buns. The company’s commitment to quality and taste has earned it a loyal following, making it a popular choice for burger enthusiasts.
For those craving Whataburger’s menu items, the chain also provides online ordering options with curbside pickup and delivery services. This flexibility allows customers to enjoy their favorite meals whether dining in, taking out, or having food brought directly to their doorstep.
History of Whataburger
Whataburger’s story began in 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first restaurant in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big it required two hands to hold.
The 1950s saw rapid expansion across Texas, with Whataburger gaining popularity for its made-to-order burgers. By the end of the decade, multiple locations had opened throughout the state.
In the 1960s, Whataburger introduced its iconic A-frame buildings with orange and white stripes. These distinctive structures became a recognizable symbol of the brand across Texas and beyond.
The 1970s marked significant growth under Grace Dobson’s leadership after Harmon’s passing. The company doubled its locations to over 200 restaurants. Drive-thrus were introduced in 1971, along with new menu items like the Whataburger Jr. and onion rings.
Whataburger continued to expand in subsequent decades, reaching neighboring states. The company remained family-owned until 2019, when BDT & MSD Partners acquired a majority stake.
Today, Whataburger operates hundreds of locations across the United States. It maintains its Texas roots and commitment to fresh, made-to-order burgers, while adapting to changing customer preferences and expanding its menu offerings.
Whataburger’s Expansion
Whataburger has embarked on an ambitious growth strategy to expand its footprint across the United States. The iconic Texas chain aims to bring its beloved burgers to new markets while maintaining a strong presence in its home state.
Growth in the United States
Whataburger’s expansion plans are in full swing, with the company targeting dozens of new locations by 2027. The chain is focusing on strategic market entry, with notable progress in Florida. Tampa Bay is set to welcome its first Whataburger restaurants, while Jacksonville will see 12 new franchises open their doors.
For the first time in nearly two decades, Whataburger is embracing franchising as a growth strategy. This approach allows for faster and more efficient expansion into new areas. The company sees franchising as a way to create job opportunities and invest in local communities.
Whataburger’s expansion isn’t limited to the Southeast. The chain is actively exploring opportunities in other regions, aiming to satisfy burger enthusiasts across the country.
Texas as a Core Market
Despite its national ambitions, Whataburger remains deeply committed to its Texas roots. The Lone Star State continues to be the heart of the company’s operations, with a dense network of restaurants spanning major cities and small towns alike.
Texas serves as a proving ground for new menu items and restaurant designs. The state’s loyal customer base provides valuable feedback, helping Whataburger refine its offerings before rolling them out to other markets.
The company’s expansion within Texas focuses on filling gaps in coverage and upgrading existing locations. This ensures that Texans never have to travel far for their Whataburger fix.
Locations in Other States
Whataburger’s presence beyond Texas has grown significantly in recent years. The chain now operates in multiple Southern states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.
Each new state entry is carefully planned, with Whataburger often clustering multiple locations in a single market to build brand awareness. This strategy has proven successful in cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Kansas City, Missouri.
The company tailors its approach to each new market, balancing its Texas heritage with local tastes and preferences. This flexibility has helped Whataburger gain traction in diverse communities across the country.
Guide to Finding Whataburger Locations
Whataburger offers multiple convenient methods for customers to locate their nearest restaurant. These options cater to different preferences and situations, ensuring that burger enthusiasts can easily find and enjoy their favorite meals.
Utilizing the Store Locator
Whataburger’s official website features a user-friendly store locator tool. Customers can search for locations by entering their city, state, or ZIP code. The locator displays results in both list and map formats, allowing for easy visualization of nearby restaurants.
The interactive map pinpoints all Whataburger locations in the selected area. Users can zoom in or out to adjust their search radius. Each location on the map provides essential information such as address, phone number, and operating hours.
For those who prefer a list view, the search results can be sorted by distance. This feature helps customers quickly identify the closest Whataburger to their current location or destination.
Mobile App for On-The-Go Ordering
Whataburger’s mobile app serves as a versatile tool for finding locations and placing orders. Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app uses GPS technology to detect the user’s location and display nearby restaurants.
The app’s location finder includes additional features such as:
- Real-time driving directions
- Ability to save favorite locations
- Option to filter by restaurants with drive-thru or dining room service
Users can also place orders directly through the app for pickup or delivery. This seamless integration of location services and ordering capabilities enhances the overall customer experience.
Regional Availability
Whataburger operates in 16 states across the United States, with a strong presence in the southern and southwestern regions. The chain boasts over 1,000 locations, providing ample opportunities for burger enthusiasts to find a nearby restaurant.
States with Whataburger locations include:
- Texas (home state with the highest concentration)
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
While Whataburger continues to expand, its availability may be limited in certain areas. Customers traveling to new regions can use the store locator or mobile app to check for nearby locations in advance.
Menu Highlights and Offerings
Whataburger’s menu features a diverse array of options centered around their iconic burgers. The Texas-based chain offers customizable choices, limited-time specials, and items catering to various dietary preferences.
Signature Burgers
Whataburger’s menu revolves around its famous burgers made with 100% pure American beef. The classic Whataburger, a quarter-pound patty on a five-inch toasted bun, stands as the cornerstone of their offerings. Customers can customize their burgers with an impressive 36,864 combinations of toppings, sauces, and sides.
Popular choices include the Double Meat Whataburger and the Bacon & Cheese Whataburger. For those seeking extra flavor, the Jalapeño & Cheese Whataburger adds a spicy kick. The Monterey Melt combines two beef patties with melted Monterey Jack and American cheese, grilled peppers, and onions.
Seasonal and Limited-Time Offers
Whataburger regularly introduces seasonal and limited-time menu items to keep things fresh and exciting. These special offerings often reflect regional flavors or seasonal ingredients. Past limited-time burgers have included the Pico de Gallo Burger and the Avocado Bacon Burger.
The chain also features seasonal breakfast items like the popular Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. During certain times of the year, customers can enjoy specialty shakes such as the Dr Pepper Shake or the Salted Caramel Shake.
Vegetarian and Dietary Options
While Whataburger is known for its beef burgers, the menu includes options for those with different dietary preferences. Vegetarian choices are limited but available. The Garden Salad can be ordered without chicken for a meat-free option.
For those watching their carb intake, Whataburger offers lettuce-wrapped burgers. Grilled chicken sandwiches provide a leaner protein alternative. The chain also offers a variety of sides beyond french fries, including apple slices for a healthier choice.
Whataburger’s website provides nutritional information, allowing customers to make informed decisions based on their dietary needs.
Ordering Experience
Whataburger offers multiple convenient options for customers to place and receive their orders. The restaurant chain prioritizes efficiency and customer satisfaction across its various ordering channels.
Dine-In and Drive-Thru Service
Whataburger’s traditional ordering methods remain popular among customers. Dine-in service allows patrons to enjoy their meals in a casual restaurant setting. Friendly staff members take orders at the counter, ensuring accuracy and addressing any special requests.
Drive-thru service caters to customers on the go. Whataburger’s drive-thru lanes are designed for quick and efficient service. Clear menu boards display available items, and intercom systems facilitate smooth communication between customers and staff.
Many locations feature dual drive-thru lanes to reduce wait times during peak hours. Whataburger’s commitment to speed and quality is evident in both dine-in and drive-thru experiences.
Online Orders and Delivery
Whataburger has embraced digital ordering to meet evolving customer preferences. The company’s website offers a user-friendly platform for placing online orders. Customers can easily browse the menu, customize their meals, and select pickup or delivery options.
Third-party delivery services partner with Whataburger to expand its reach. Popular apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub provide convenient delivery options for those unable to visit a physical location.
Online ordering systems integrate seamlessly with Whataburger’s kitchen operations, ensuring that orders are prepared accurately and efficiently. This streamlined process helps maintain food quality and temperature for both pickup and delivery orders.
Mobile Ordering and Rewards
Whataburger’s mobile app enhances the ordering experience with additional features and benefits. The app allows customers to place orders for pickup or delivery directly from their smartphones. Users can save favorite orders for quick reordering and receive exclusive offers.
The Whataburger Rewards program is integrated into the mobile app. Customers earn points on their purchases, which can be redeemed for free menu items. The app also provides location-based services, helping users find nearby Whataburger restaurants.
Mobile payments through the app offer a contactless transaction option. Push notifications keep customers informed about order status and special promotions. The mobile platform combines convenience with loyalty incentives, encouraging repeat visits and fostering customer engagement.
Career Opportunities at Whataburger
Whataburger offers diverse career paths for individuals seeking growth in the fast food industry. The company provides roles at both store and corporate levels, along with robust training programs to support employee development.
Store-Level Careers
Whataburger’s restaurants offer various entry-level and leadership positions. Team Members start in customer service or food preparation roles, gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced environment. Shift Leaders oversee daily operations and guide team performance.
Restaurant Managers handle overall store management, including staffing, inventory, and customer satisfaction. General Managers take full responsibility for a location’s success, overseeing finances, team development, and community relations.
These positions provide opportunities for advancement as employees demonstrate skills and dedication.
Corporate and Management Positions
Whataburger’s corporate offices support over 890 restaurants across 14 states. Roles span departments such as marketing, finance, human resources, and information technology.
District Managers oversee multiple restaurant locations, ensuring consistent quality and performance. Regional Directors manage larger territories, developing strategies for growth and operational excellence.
Corporate positions often require specialized skills or degrees but offer competitive salaries and benefits. Whataburger values promoting from within, giving store-level employees chances to transition to corporate roles.
Employee Training and Development
Whataburger invests heavily in employee growth through comprehensive training programs. New hires receive thorough onboarding to learn company standards and procedures.
The company offers leadership development initiatives to prepare employees for management roles. These programs cover topics like team leadership, financial management, and customer service excellence.
Whataburger’s commitment to training extends to ongoing skill development for all employees. This focus on continuous learning helps team members advance their careers while improving overall company performance.
Community Engagement and Initiatives
Whataburger actively participates in local communities through various programs and partnerships. The company’s efforts focus on supporting education, addressing food insecurity, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Local Partnerships
Whataburger collaborates with schools, sports teams, and community organizations to create meaningful connections. The company sponsors over 100 professional, minor league, collegiate, high school, and local sports teams across its operating areas. These partnerships often involve providing meals for players and fans.
Whataburger’s “Feeding Student Success” program targets food insecurity and education. The initiative supports college resource rooms and offers scholarships to students in need.
The company also works with local food banks and shelters to distribute meals to those facing hunger in their communities.
Charity Events and Fundraisers
Whataburger organizes and participates in various charitable events throughout the year. The “Whataburger Serves” program enables employees to engage in community service projects.
These initiatives range from local clean-up efforts to fundraising drives for specific causes. Whataburger often leverages its brand recognition to raise awareness and funds for important community issues.
The company frequently hosts in-store fundraisers, donating a portion of sales to local charities or schools. These events help strengthen ties with customers while supporting worthy causes.
Sustainability Efforts
Whataburger has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The company focuses on sustainable packaging and waste reduction in its restaurants.
Many Whataburger locations have adopted energy-efficient lighting and equipment to minimize energy consumption. Some restaurants feature water-saving fixtures to conserve resources.
The company has also explored sourcing ingredients from local suppliers when possible, reducing transportation emissions and supporting regional economies.
Whataburger educates its employees and customers about sustainability practices, encouraging recycling and responsible disposal of waste in its restaurants.
Whataburger in Retail
Whataburger has expanded its brand beyond restaurant locations, offering branded merchandise and grocery store products. Fans can now enjoy Whataburger flavors at home and show their love for the Texas-based chain through various retail items.
Branded Merchandise
Whataburger’s online store features a wide array of branded merchandise. T-shirts, hats, and hoodies showcase the iconic orange and white logo. Home goods like blankets, pillows, and kitchen accessories allow fans to incorporate Whataburger into their daily lives.
The company also offers unique items such as Whataburger-scented candles and custom-designed shoes. For special occasions, Whataburger-themed party supplies and gift cards are available. These products enable customers to express their loyalty to the brand outside of the restaurant setting.
Grocery Store Products
Whataburger has brought its popular flavors to grocery store shelves. Condiments like Spicy Ketchup, Honey Butter, and Creamy Pepper Sauce can be purchased for home use. Pancake mix allows customers to recreate Whataburger’s breakfast items in their own kitchens.
The company has also introduced potato chips flavored after their famous menu items. These include Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich and Whatafries varieties. Whataburger’s partnerships with grocery chains have made these products widely accessible, extending the brand’s reach beyond its restaurant locations.
Nutritional Information
Whataburger provides detailed nutritional information for its menu items. Customers can access this data to make informed choices about their meals.
The Whataburger website features a nutrition calculator. This tool allows users to customize their orders and view the corresponding nutritional values.
Key nutritional factors for Whataburger items include calories, protein, carbohydrates, and sodium content. Fat and sugar levels are also provided for each menu option.
Burgers at Whataburger vary in calorie content. A basic Whataburger contains approximately 590 calories. Larger or specialty burgers may have higher calorie counts.
Whataburger offers some lighter options for health-conscious customers. Grilled chicken sandwiches and salads typically have lower calorie and fat content than burgers.
Sides and beverages contribute significantly to meal nutrition. French fries, for example, add about 400 calories to an order. Opting for a side salad can reduce overall calorie intake.
Nutritional information for limited-time offerings and regional menu items is also available. Whataburger updates this data regularly to ensure accuracy.
Customer Testimonials and Reviews
Whataburger’s reputation shines through customer feedback. Many patrons praise the chain’s commitment to freshness, exemplified by their “Cooked when you order” motto.
The Honey Barbecue Chicken Sandwich receives high marks for its moistness and flavor. Customers appreciate the generous portion sizes, particularly noting the large drinks served.
Texans express a strong affinity for Whataburger, considering it a staple of their fast food culture. The chain’s ability to cater to individual preferences earns positive reviews.
Whataburger’s 24-hour availability in numerous locations adds to its appeal. Late-night diners and early risers alike find satisfaction in the accessible menu options.
The company’s mobile app facilitates convenient ordering, though some customers report occasional discrepancies between their orders and the received items. This highlights the importance of clear communication in the ordering process.
While opinions on specific menu items vary, the overall sentiment towards Whataburger remains largely positive. Customers value the chain’s made-to-order approach and its role as a beloved Texas institution.