News Summary
Whataburger, the beloved Texas-based fast food chain, will be opening its first location in North Carolina on May 29, 2025, in Gastonia. The restaurant, located at 3415 East Franklin Boulevard, marks the beginning of the chain’s expansion, with plans to launch a total of 10 locations throughout the state by the end of the year. The initial establishment aims to cater to local communities while offering a diverse menu of customizable dining options. The excitement surrounding this opening suggests strong interest among local burger enthusiasts.
Gastonia, NC – Whataburger, the popular Texas-based fast food chain known for its burgers and fries, is officially set to open its first North Carolina location on May 29, 2025. The restaurant will open its doors at 3415 East Franklin Boulevard in Gastonia at 9 a.m., marking a significant expansion for the brand in the Southeastern United States.
The fast food chain plans to launch a total of 10 locations throughout North Carolina in 2025, with around half of these new restaurants expected to be situated in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Ongoing construction projects are already underway in several locations, including Charlotte, Hickory, Indian Land, and Mooresville, all of which are scheduled to welcome Whataburger later in the year.
Debbie Stroud, Whataburger’s president and CEO, expressed excitement about the brand’s entry into local communities like Gastonia. The plans for Whataburger’s expansion in North Carolina have been in development since at least 2022, though previous obstacles delayed the anticipated opening. This initial location in Gastonia signifies the beginning of the chain’s long-awaited entry into the state.
Background on Whataburger
Founded in 1950, Whataburger has become a cherished dining option in Texas, operating over 700 locations throughout the state. Over the years, the chain has expanded its footprint beyond Texas, now boasting more than 1,100 locations nationwide. South Carolina currently hosts several Whataburger restaurants, including locations in Columbia, Greenville, and Spartanburg.
It’s important to note that this new Whataburger is separate from a local entity called What-A-Burger, which operates in Concord, Kannapolis, and Mooresville. The similarity in names may cause some confusion among the public, but the two fast-food chains are entirely unrelated.
Menu Offerings
Whataburger is well-regarded for its wide array of menu options, featuring signature burgers, crispy fries, rich milkshakes, and an assortment of sauces, including the brand’s renowned spicy ketchup. The restaurant encourages customers to customize their meals to their liking, supporting the “Just Like You Like It” motto. Diners can choose from various toppings and sauces, including jalapenos and avocado, for a personalized dining experience.
Community Engagement
A promotional event was recently held at Ridge Road Middle School, where local teachers enjoyed complimentary meals and Whataburger merchandise, indicating the chain’s commitment to engaging with the community as it prepares to establish its presence in North Carolina.
Future Expansion Plans
In addition to the Gastonia location, Whataburger anticipates opening additional restaurants later in 2025 in various cities including Charlotte, Hickory, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem. This expansion represents a major growth opportunity for the brand as it seeks to establish its presence in a state that has shown increasing interest in its offerings.
As the opening date approaches, residents of Gastonia and surrounding areas are eager to experience Whataburger’s unique menu and customizable options. The buzz surrounding the brand’s entry into North Carolina suggests that the fast-food chain is set to gain a loyal customer base among local burger enthusiasts.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Carolina Senate Passes School Calendar Flexibility Bill
Whataburger Expands Into North Carolina with New Locations
Whataburger Launches Food Truck in North Carolina
Whataburger Opens First Location in North Carolina
Whataburger to Open New Restaurant in Mooresville, NC
Three-Alarm Fire at Charlotte Storage Facility
Whataburger Set to Open in Charlotte in March 2025
Exciting News for Burger Lovers in Charlotte!
Additional Resources
- WCNC News
- Wikipedia: Whataburger
- Charlotte Observer
- Google Search: Whataburger North Carolina
- WCCB Charlotte
- Google Scholar: Whataburger
- News Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fast Food
- Axios Charlotte
- Google News: Whataburger
