Charlotte’s first Whataburger is now open. Here’s what you need to know
After years of speculation and waiting, Charlotte’s first Whataburger is now open.
The Texas-based chain opened Thursday morning, giving away a free Whataburger swag bag and a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit or Breakfast Taquito to the first 100 customers. Rhythm of the Rock Marching Band from Rocky River High School in Mint Hill was set to provide entertainment for the crowd.
There are also plans for a Whatabash on Saturday to celebrate the new store. The 11 a.m.-1 p.m. party will include a video game truck to add entertainment.
The fast-food burger spot will offer 24-hour drive-thru and dining room service, along with online ordering and curbside pickup. Delivery is also available via the Whataburger app and website. The only day of the year you won’t be able to bite into a Whatabuger or Whatachick’n sandwich is Christmas Day.
Locals know, this Whataburger is not to be confused with the decades-old North Carolina restaurant with a similar-sounding name: What-A-Burger. As the Texas chain made plans for moving into North Carolina, legal action ensued. But for those burgers, head to Kannapolis, Mooresville or Concord.
Regardless of the competition, Whataburger is determined to win over customers in North Carolina.
“We are thrilled to introduce Whataburger’s bold, fresh flavors to the Queen City,” local operating partner Anthony Moss said in a news release. “Our goal is to become a cornerstone of the community — a place for post-game celebrations, early mornings over our famous Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits, and a reliable stop for a great meal.”
Whataburger opened its first Charlotte-area store in Gastonia in May, followed by a store in Hickory and one in Indian Land, SC. In all, 10 stores are planned to be open by the end of this year in the chain’s North Carolina territory (including that one just across the border from Charlotte in Indian Land), and more are on the way.
Whatabuger
Location: 12935 Albemarle Road, Charlotte NC 28227
Cuisine: breakfast, burgers, fries
Instagram: @whataburger
This story was originally published September 18, 2025 at 9:41 AM.
