Whataburger in Houston: A Deep Dive into Texas's Favorite Burger Chain

Whataburger is more than just a fast-food chain; it's a Texas institution. Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, by Harmon Dobson, Whataburger set out to create a burger so big and delicious that customers would exclaim, What a burger!.

And that’s exactly what happened. From its humble beginnings as a small roadside stand, Whataburger has grown into a beloved cultural icon, deeply intertwined with the identity of Texas. For Houstonians, Whataburger represents a taste of home, a late-night craving, and a shared experience that binds the community together.

A History Rooted in Texas

The story of Whataburger begins with a simple vision: a bigger, better burger. Harmon Dobson wanted to create a burger that was unlike anything else on the market. In 1950, the standard burger consisted of two ounces of beef on a small bun.

Dobson doubled the beef to a quarter pound and placed it on a five-inch bun. He contacted a local bakery to create a custom bun that could handle the larger patty.

The first Whataburger opened on August 8, 1950, selling burgers for 25 cents. The recipe included a 100% beef patty, fresh lettuce, three slices of tomato, four dill pickles, chopped onions, mustard, and ketchup. The meat was fresh, never frozen, and cooked to order.

The restaurant was an instant success, and Dobson quickly began expanding throughout Texas.

In 1961, Whataburger built the first orange and white striped A-frame building in Odessa, Texas. The design was meant to be eye-catching and visible from a distance. By 1967, Whataburger had locations across Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona. Today, there are over 600 Whataburger restaurants in Texas alone.

Whataburger's Houston Presence

Whataburger's arrival in Houston dates back to 1957, marking a significant expansion for the Texas-born burger chain. The first Houston location embraced a stout, rectangular design, a departure from the A-frame architecture that would later become synonymous with the brand.

Throughout the years, Whataburger has solidified its presence in Houston, becoming a ubiquitous part of the city's culinary landscape.

Notably, Whataburger's growth in Houston was strategically fueled by acquiring existing Herfy's locations in the 1970s. These conversions allowed Whataburger to rapidly expand its footprint in the city, establishing a strong foundation for its future success. Today, Houston boasts a multitude of Whataburger locations, each serving up the classic taste that Texans have come to love.

Whether you're in downtown Houston or the surrounding suburbs, a Whataburger is never far away.

Iconic Menu Items

Whataburger's menu is full of classic, comforting favorites. Here are some of the most popular items:

• Whataburger: The original and still a fan favorite, featuring a soft bun, a single beef patty, diced onions, lettuce, pickles, tomato, and mustard.
• Double Meat Whataburger: For those with a bigger appetite, this burger doubles the beef.
• Triple Meat Whataburger: Three beef patties stacked high.
• Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit: A crispy chicken fillet coated in sweet honey butter, served on a warm biscuit.
• Patty Melt: Texas toast, grilled onions, Monterey Jack cheese, and creamy pepper sauce.
• Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Marinated, crispy chicken with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo on a toasted bun.

Diving into the Secret Menu

One of the most exciting aspects of Whataburger is its well-known secret menu, a collection of fan-created customizations and off-menu items that have gained legendary status. While not officially advertised, these secret menu items are widely known and can be ordered by those in the know.

Here are a few of the most popular:

• Grilled Cheese with Grilled Vegetables: A simple grilled cheese sandwich elevated with fresh grilled vegetables.
• Whatachick'n Strips & Pancakes: A Southern-inspired combination of chicken strips and pancakes, available during breakfast hours.
• Breakfast on a Bun Ranchero: A Breakfast on a Bun with picante sauce and jalapeños.
• Bunless Bacon and Cheese Whataburger: A Whataburger served without the bun, often on a platter.
• The Hulk: A vibrant green beverage made with Powerade and Vault soda.

Houston's Burger Scene Beyond Whataburger

While Whataburger holds a special place in the hearts of Houstonians, the city's burger scene is diverse and thriving. Here are some other notable burger joints in Houston:

• Trill Burgers: A smashburger concept created by rapper Bun B, named the best burger in the nation by Good Morning America.
• Burger Bodega: Known for its crispy-edged double smashburger and New York City bodega-inspired atmosphere.
• Lankford's Grocery & Market: A Houston institution serving classic burgers since 1939.
• Hubcap Grill: Features a variety of specialty burgers.
• Moon Tower Inn: Known for its creative burger concoctions and extensive beer selection.

What Makes Whataburger Special?

So, what is it about Whataburger that makes it so beloved in Houston and throughout Texas? It's more than just the food; it's the experience. Whataburger represents:

• Tradition: A taste of nostalgia and a connection to Texas history.
• Customization: The ability to create your perfect burger, exactly how you like it.
• Community: A gathering place for friends and family.
• Convenience: Open 24/7, Whataburger is always there when you need it.
• Texas Pride: Whataburger is a symbol of Texas identity and a source of state pride.

Conclusion

Whataburger is more than just a burger chain; it's a cultural phenomenon. For Houstonians, it's a taste of home, a symbol of Texas pride, and a reminder of shared experiences. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, Whataburger is a must-try experience that embodies the spirit of Texas.

So, next time you're in Houston, be sure to stop by a Whataburger and experience the magic for yourself. You might just find yourself saying, What a burger!