The wait is over, North Carolina! The Lone Star legend is making its long-awaited Tar Heel debut. After years of anticipation, the iconic burger brand is opening its very first North Carolina location on May 29 at 9 a.m. in Gastonia at 3415 E Franklin Blvd., serving up bold flavors the Whataburger way.

In 1950, our founder, Harmon Dobson, began serving burgers so big that you had to hold it with two hands and it would make you say “Whataburger!” What began as a small burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas, has grown into a family of more than 1,100 restaurants—now proudly serving our 17th state with the opening of our newest location in Gastonia. This grand opening is one more exciting moment in a full year of celebrations for Whataburger’s 75th anniversary year. 

Once doors open in May, Charlotte-area locals can treat themselves to Whataburger’s signature fresh, never-frozen beef patties, 5-inch buns, and craveworthy classics like the Patty Melt and Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit – always made-to-order and fully customizable. Beyond serving great food, Whataburger is committed to making a meaningful impact in the communities they call home, creating jobs, supporting local organizations, and building strong relationships with their new neighbors. 

“For 75 years, Whataburger has grown from a single burger stand into a brand folks love across the country—but our heart has always stayed right where it belongs: in local communities just like Gastonia," said Debbie Stroud, Whataburger president and chief executive officer. "As someone who lived for years in North Carolina, finally opening our doors here feels like coming home. We’re excited to start making memories together—first bites, first jobs, first dates—and to deliver the Whataburger experience that keeps fans coming back: hot, fresh, and made Just Like You Like It.”

Whataburger will open a total of 10 restaurants in North Carolina through 2025, spreading Goodness 24/7 statewide. The following nine locations will open their doors later this year:

• June 2025: 2060 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC 28602
• Summer 2025: 12935 Albemarle Rd., Charlotte, NC 28227
• Summer 2025: 8574 Charlotte Highway, Indian Land, SC 29707
• Summer 2025: 1408 Four Seasons Station Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407
• Late Summer 2025: 291 Harvey St., Winston-Salem, NC 27103
• Fall 2025: 10118 N Main St., Archdale, NC 27263
• Fall 2025: 2713 N Main St., High Point, NC 27265
• 2025: 1152 Solomon Drive, Kernersville, North Carolina 27284
• 2025: 604 River Highway, Mooresville, North Carolina 28117

Fans that are hungry for more can get their Whataburger fix 24/7—whether they swing through the drive-thru, order online, or tap into the Whataburger App. Guests who download the app and create an account automatically earn a free Whataburger and start earning points to spend toward their go-to favorites.

Whataburger is celebrating their 75th anniversary all year long with 75 stories from their fan and Family Member communities – and invites everyone to join in the Whatacelebration! To keep up with Whataburger’s future openings and news, visit www.Whataburger.com.