Some cities are getting their first Whataburger ever—here’s where the chain is expanding next

Whataburger, the Texas fast food chain known for its made-to-order burger, is continuing its planned expansion across the U.S. The “hometown burger place that hasn’t compromised” will open 15 new restaurants by the end of June, according to what the brand recently told USA Today.

The chain first announced it would be growing in 2020, after being acquired by BDT Capital Partners the previous year. Shortly thereafter, the fast food joint began launching new locations in new states. It focused its growth most aggressively in Southern states like Tennessee, Missouri, and Florida. 

At the time, the company said in a press release, that the chain isn’t just growing, but also franchising. “Whataburger also will begin franchising our restaurants for the first time in almost 20 years,” it said. “This will allow us to open more restaurants in more areas – more quickly and efficiently – while providing job opportunities and investing in the communities we serve.”

Since the expansion efforts began, it’s been a lot easier to get your hands on a Whataburger burger. According to the brand, Whataburgers can now be found in over 17 states with over 1,100 restaurants across 17 states. That includes 720 locations in Texas alone. 

And, unlike modern chains, most Whataburger locations are open 24 hours, seven days a week. The only day of the year the chain is not serving burgers is Christmas day. 

On social media, fans of the burgers are pleased that the chain is growing. One customer on X declared that Whataburger is superior to its competitors. “In n Out is a good burger. I like it. That being said, Whataburger is just better,” one X user wrote.

Likewise, others who have recently experienced the burgers for the first time, as the chain has come to their hometown, have been reviewing the meals. One recent review on TikTok praised the food for being ultra-fresh and exceptionally customizable, writing “A big YES from me,” in the video’s caption.

Unsurprisingly, the latest group of restaurant openings will include a handful of new locations in Texas, along with two locations in Florida, two in Tennessee, North Carolina, and more.

The 15 new Whataburgers will open in the following locations:

Texas
Laredo
Flower Mound
San Antonio
Odessa
Fort Worth
Georgetown

Arizona
Glendale

Florida
Brandon
Pensacola

Tennessee
Nashville
Columbia

North Carolina
Garner
Southern Pines

South Carolina
Rock Hill

Georgia
Carrollton

Additionally, on Tuesday, Whataburger also announced its introducing a new kids meal offerings. “Starting Tuesday, May 5, families can expect new interactive packaging, collectible toys, and a little extra magic in every box,” the chain explained in the announcement. While Whataburger previously offered kids meals, they will now include a surprise toy, like collectible sticker packs. 

“New surprise gifts will roll out throughout the year, giving kids something new to look forward to with every visit,” it noted.

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