When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Whataburger
Why Whataburger is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Whataburger, founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, has grown into a beloved regional fast-food chain headquartered in San Antonio. Specializing in made-to-order hamburgers, Whataburger offers a customizable menu featuring iconic items such as the original Whataburger, Whataburger Jr., Triple Meat Whataburger, and the Bacon & Cheese Whataburger, alongside non-beef options like Whatachick'n. The chain serves breakfast with biscuits, sausage, bacon, and eggs, catering to morning crowds. Known for its distinctive orange-and-white A-frame buildings, Whataburger combines nostalgic charm with modern service, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for meetups and casual gatherings. With over 1,100 restaurants in 17 states and a workforce of over 51,000 employees called Family Members, Whataburger is a vibrant community hub. Open 24/7 in most locations, it provides accessibility and convenience for friends to enjoy delicious burgers and bold flavors any time of day. The chain's commitment to hospitality and meaningful connections enhances its appeal as a go-to spot for friends to come together and share quality food and conversation.
Here's what people think of Whataburger
As of recent, Whataburger holds a 3.5-star rating based on 2592 reviews.
Whataburger has received mixed reviews from its customers, averaging a rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on more than 2,500 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the brand's made-to-order, customizable menu which satisfies diverse tastes, as well as the warm, friendly service from Whataburger's Family Members. Many fans appreciate the nostalgic, bold flavors of the classic Whataburger offerings and the convenience of 24/7 availability. Reviewers from industries such as manufacturing rate the product quality particularly highly, and younger customers tend to give more favorable scores. The cultural connection and regional roots also add to the restaurant's appeal. However, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in food quality and service depending on location, with complaints about order accuracy and speed during busy times. Certain demographics and older customers rate the experience less favorably, suggesting some areas for improvement in customer satisfaction. Despite these mixed opinions, Whataburger maintains a loyal fanbase and continues to grow, indicating overall positive brand sentiment. The company’s strong presence on social media and awards for customer service reflect its ongoing efforts to enhance the guest experience and community engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
M G
I’ve had to wait over 40 minutes for my online orders here, even when I selected the ASAP pickup option an hour in advance. They also constantly forget sauces or other items. Sometimes they accept online orders with salads, only to tell me when I arrive that they’re out of salads. On top of that, they’ve removed the best item on the menu — the chicken fajita taco. Honestly, it’s probably better to skip this Whataburger location and look for something better elsewhere.
Kevin V
Let's start with the food. First i noticed the spicy ketchup i requested, wasnt in the bag. Ok that happens a lot at various locations, not a huge deal. But fries had no salt on them so that ketchup would have really helped this time. When I got home and started opening the burger wrapper, I noticed the pico veggies were still on the burger (despite it clearly stating on the order "NO PICO" (see full photo). They correctly put the sauce i requested, but then they also added free bacon which i had not requested (but i guess im not complaining about that - just pointing out how bad so many areas of the staff don't pay attention). They make you wait forever way past the "estimated pickup time" for curbside orders. Even when the lobby isn't busy. I don't understand the problem 😂. At least the staff member was very friendly and apologized for the delay. The manager at this location is Nathan and he needs to get on his employees to pay more attention to order times and order details though!
Serja Daeva
Honestly the best Whataburger I've had in a long while. Everything was hot and fresh, and they were very accommodating to special requests. Got the spicy chicken like the wrangler burger and it was amazing 👏 would recommend. Staff and security were both rock solid. If you're looking for a late night bite, this is a great choice
Marissa R
I get to the Whataburger drive-through at 2 AM. I am told that There’s going to be a 30 minute wait. I tell them that’s fine and I am not joking when I say this, it took them over an hour to give me my order in the drive-through. The employee in the drive-through was very kind when I was eventually brought my food. I made it known that I was not happy and I was very upset that cars that were behind me were getting food before I was and not waiting is nearly as wrong long, I did not order a large order. The employee with the glasses and blonde hair was very kind and apologized. They were about the only good thing out of the experience. She let me know that they were short staffed. I wasn’t gonna write this until I went to open my cinnamon roll and it was still frozen ?!
Lara S
Waited for pick up for 1.5 hour 😱 Received overcooked onion rings, impossible to eat( and very strange cinnamon
How to reach Whataburger
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Why Whataburger may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Whataburger with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Whataburger offers more than just a meal—it delivers an experience defined by iconic flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and rich tradition. Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger has become a staple of American fast food known for its made-to-order, customizable burgers served hot and fresh on toasted buns. Its name itself invites a sense of fun and communal enjoyment—a place that invites exclamations of delight with every bite. With a strong presence across the Southern United States and beyond, Whataburger has grown into a beloved destination where groups can enjoy classic American fast food together any time of day or night, since many locations operate 24/7. The nostalgic charm of the distinctive orange-and-white-striped A-frame buildings, combined with a menu that caters to diverse tastes—including beef, chicken, and breakfast selections—makes it a versatile spot for friends seeking casual, fun, and satisfying food experiences. Beyond high-quality fare, Whataburger’s culture of hospitality thrives on relationships among its staff called Family Members, helping groups feel right at home while sharing meals and memories. All these factors make Whataburger an ideal rallying point for friendly get-togethers.
What activities can you do at Whataburger that make it perfect for group meetups?
Whataburger’s fast-casual restaurant setting is well suited for various informal activities that foster social connection among groups. Primarily, its made-to-order menu invites diners to customize their meals exactly how they like, which sparks lively conversations and group sharing. Friends or family can enjoy building their own burger combinations or sampling a variety of menu staples like the classic Whataburger, the Triple Meat Whataburger, or the non-beef Whatachick’n to compare flavors. The availability of breakfast options such as biscuits, eggs, and sausage allows for morning meetups or brunch outings, expanding the window of time groups can come together comfortably. Many locations have ample seating space conducive to both small and larger groups, whether seated indoors or enjoying the convenience of drive-thru service for casual takeout gatherings.
In addition to dining, Whataburger’s welcoming 24/7 hours (excluding Christmas) means that groups can plan meetups at almost any hour, including late-night hangouts or early-morning breakfast runs that suit diverse schedules. The restaurant’s brand identity and fan following also lend themselves to fun group photo ops under the retro orange-and-white roofs. Occasional community events or local promotions at Whataburger stores give groups a shared experience around themed activities, further enriching any meetup. Lastly, the casual, familiar ambiance where the staff strives to deliver friendly service encourages relaxed and extended social time without pressure, making Whataburger a comfortable spot to catch up, celebrate small occasions, or simply hang out with friends and family.
Why does Whataburger’s menu appeal to group gatherings?
A core reason Why Whataburger is so favored for group meetups is its extensive, customizable menu that satisfies a breadth of tastes and preferences. The restaurant’s hallmark is 100% pure, never-frozen beef burgers served piping hot and made to individual orders. This focus on quality allows every guest to tailor their meal with choices like grilled jalapeños, extra bacon, or multiple slices of cheese, turning each burger into a personalized delight. For groups, this means no one has to compromise; each person’s burger can reflect their unique cravings, making shared meals more enjoyable.
Moreover, the menu encompasses a broad variety of items including the iconic Whataburger Jr., Bacon & Cheese Whataburger, and Justaburger, alongside chicken options such as the Whatachick’n. Breakfast enthusiasts will appreciate morning staples like biscuits, pork sausage, bacon, and eggs, which makes Whataburger a viable venue for breakfast meetups or brunch with friends. Sides, including fries and hot pies, round out the meal options, allowing groups to share and sample. This customizable menu diversity caters to meat-eaters, chicken lovers, breakfast fans, and even those looking for quick snacks, making it easy to accommodate various palates and dietary needs during group visits.
How does Whataburger cater to convenience and accessibility for groups?
Convenience is central to Whataburger’s appeal as a group meetup location. Many of its locations operate around the clock, with 24/7 service available all but Christmas Day, enabling flexible timing for friends and families juggling different schedules. Whether you want to grab a late-night meal after an event or an early-morning breakfast before work or school, Whataburger’s reliable hours facilitate spontaneous or planned gatherings alike.
The presence of over 1,100 restaurants across 17 states also ensures accessibility for many communities, especially in Texas and the Southern United States. The widespread footprint means that friends or family can select a nearby location for ease of travel and comfort. Facilities typically include ample parking and drive-thru lanes to accommodate varying preferences for dining in or carrying out. The quick service ensures that groups spend more time socializing and less time waiting. Moreover, Whataburger’s mobile app and online platforms support ordering ahead, which is advantageous for large groups seeking to minimize wait times and streamline meal pickup or delivery.
How does Whataburger’s culture and community enhance the group experience?
Whataburger is recognized not just for its food but for its culture of hospitality and community spirit, which enhances the social experience of group meetups. The company calls its employees Family Members, emphasizing the warmth and care inherent in their customer service. This culture of genuine friendliness means groups are welcomed enthusiastically, making guests feel like part of a larger family gathering.
The brand’s longevity and deep roots in Texas history add a nostalgic and hometown feel to visits, which creates a conversational backdrop that can be shared among new and longtime fans. The iconic orange-and-white A-frame buildings, once a hallmark in the mid-20th century, provide a memorable and visually striking environment that many associate with fond memories and traditions. Whataburger’s presence in popular culture—from TV appearances to active social media fan communities—also can make group visits feel like participating in something culturally significant and fun.
The company’s commitment to its communities through philanthropy and local engagement further cements Whataburger as a place people feel good about visiting and recommending. This positive association encourages groups to choose Whataburger as a meeting point that aligns with values of care, inclusion, and regional pride, beyond the simple attraction of a shared meal.
What makes Whataburger a reliable and popular choice despite its 3.5-star rating?
While Whataburger has a rating of 3.5 based on over 2,500 reviews, its enduring popularity and widespread fan base speak to the many strengths it offers group diners. The rating reflects a combination of factors including differing experiences across numerous locations and the challenge of meeting diverse customer expectations in a busy fast-food environment. However, Whataburger’s consistent focus on quality ingredients, made-to-order customization, and friendly service maintains a loyal following.
Regular updates to the menu, seasonal offerings, and the introduction of new items keep the experience fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. The company’s strong brand identity and emotional connection with customers often outweigh occasional criticisms, especially for groups looking for a dependable and casual place to come together. The value of convenience, choice, and a familiar welcoming environment reinforces Why Whataburger remains a top pick for friends and families planning informal meetups, helping to create enjoyable moments over great American burgers and much more.