Whataburger

When it comes to fast-food chains, there’s no questioning that Whataburger is a beloved institution in the state of Texas. From its iconic orange and white striped roofs, to its breakfast taquitos and burgers, Whataburger has been making mouths water since its founding in 1950.

A Family Legacy

The story of Whataburger begins in Corpus Christi, Texas, when Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton opened the first Whataburger location. Dobson had a vision of creating a burger that was so big, customers would have to use both hands to eat it. And thus, the Whataburger was born.

It wasn’t just the size of the burger that set it apart from the competition. Dobson also decided to use fresh, never-frozen beef and grill it to order. This was a game-changer for the fast-food industry, as most other chains were using frozen beef patties.

As the chain began to expand across Texas, Dobson’s family became more involved in the business. His children, Hugh and Lynne, took over the company in the 1980s and continued to grow the brand into the successful chain it is today.

A Texas Treasure

What makes Whataburger so special to Texans? For starters, it’s a taste of home. The chain has deep roots in the Lone Star State, with many locations featuring a “Texas-only” menu of items like the Taquito with Cheese and Jalapenos and the Whataburger Patty Melt.

But it’s not just the food that keeps customers coming back. Whataburger is also well-known for its commitment to customer service. It’s not uncommon for customers to receive a “Whatagreatday!” or “Whatacatchyhat!” from employees as they place their order.

The chain has even become a part of Texas culture. You’ll often see Whataburger references in movies and TV shows set in the state, and the chain has even partnered with the San Antonio Spurs to create limited-edition Whataburger-themed jerseys.

Giving Back to the Community

One of the things that sets Whataburger apart from other fast-food chains is its commitment to giving back to the community. The company has a long history of supporting local charities and organizations, including the Whataburger Feeding Student Success program which provides meals to students in need.

In times of crisis, Whataburger is also there to lend a helping hand. After Hurricane Harvey devastated parts of Texas in 2017, the chain created a special Harvey Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to employees affected by the storm.

Looking to the Future

While Whataburger has been a Texas staple for over 70 years, the company is now looking to expand its reach. In 2019, the chain announced that it had been sold to a Chicago-based investment firm, and there are plans to open new locations in states like Kansas, Missouri and Tennessee.

But Whataburger fans need not worry – the company has promised that its commitment to quality and customer service will remain the same. And who knows? Maybe one day, the iconic orange and white striped roofs will be a familiar sight across the country.

In Conclusion

Whataburger is more than just a fast-food chain – it’s a beloved Texas institution. From its fresh, grill-to-order burgers to its commitment to giving back to the community, Whataburger has won the hearts of Texans for over 70 years. While the company may be expanding outside of the state, its dedication to quality and customer service will ensure that it remains a Texas treasure for years to come.