Charlotte just opened her very first Whataburger yesterday, bringing the Texas classic fast food joint with made-to-order burgers to the Queen City.
Yesterday, the first 100 guests received Whataburger swag bags and their choice of a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit or a Breakfast Taquito, and tomorrow, the new restaurant will host a “Whatabash” — an event featuring a video game truck from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The new restaurant’s design pays homage to Whataburger’s heritage while embracing modern convenience. A custom interior mural features Queen City landmarks, and the store includes a double drive-thru, digital menu boards, and spacious dining areas.
However, not everyone is celebrating. The new location has reignited controversy between the Texas-based chain and North Carolina’s home-grown What-A-Burger #13. Last year, Whataburger sued What-A-Burger #13 for trademark infringement, alleging that the longtime local brand violated a settlement agreement.
While the Texas chain trademarked its name in 1957, What-A-Burger #13 began operating in 1969. A 2022 agreement allowed the NC locations in Mt. Pleasant and Locust to keep their name under specific restrictions. But shortly before the agreement, What-A-Burger #13 created a new LLC and allegedly used the name outside the agreed terms, prompting legal action.
As Whataburger pushes into new territory — with over 1,000 restaurants already in 15 states — it appears to be avoiding What-A-Burger #13’s home turfs of Mt. Pleasant and Locust…for now.
