Whataburger is not just a fast-food chain. It is a Texas institution. Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi by Harmon Dobson, who wanted to build a burger so big it required two hands, the orange-and-white-striped restaurants are as much a part of the Texas landscape as pickup trucks and cowboy boots. If you are visiting from another country and want to understand what Texans eat at midnight after a game, this is where you go.
Here is how to order like a local.
The classic. A large beef patty with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, diced onions and mustard on a toasted five-inch bun. It is bigger than what most international visitors expect from a fast-food burger.
Widely considered the best item on the menu. Two beef patties, Monterey Jack cheese, grilled onions and creamy pepper sauce on Texas toast. If you only try one thing, make it this.
Available during breakfast hours (11:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m.), the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is a cult favorite. Crispy chicken strips with honey butter on a warm biscuit. It is the reason many Texans stay up late or wake up early.
High-quality, crispy chicken strips served with cream gravy for dipping. A strong option if you want something other than a burger.
Whataburger’s condiments have their own following. Spicy Ketchup is a slightly spicy version of regular ketchup and comes in packets or cups. Ask for it specifically. Creamy Pepper Sauce is the tangy, peppery sauce that makes the Patty Melt famous. Jalapeno Ranch is ideal for dipping fries or chicken strips.
The standard Whataburger is a five-inch burger. If you want something smaller, order a junior-sized item. You can customize virtually everything on the menu. Whataburger boasts 36,864 ways to configure a burger. Add grilled jalapenos, grilled onions or bacon to any sandwich.
Ask for Texas toast on any sandwich instead of the standard bun. The thicker, buttery bread changes the experience. If you prefer your fries extra crispy, ask for them “well done.”
Pair your meal with a Dr Pepper for the full Texas experience. The chain is one of the biggest sellers of the Texas-born soda.
Many Whataburger locations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This makes it a reliable option after a late Texas Rangers game or a soccer match at Dallas Stadium. Breakfast is served from 11:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m. The full burger menu is available all day.
Whataburger has multiple locations throughout the Arlington and DFW area. Inside Globe Life Field, Whataburger is located near Section 105 and is one of the most popular concession stops in the ballpark.
Get tickets to see the Rangers in 2026 and try Whataburger inside the stadium alongside a game.
The Patty Melt is widely considered the best item on the menu. The Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit is the top breakfast option.
Yes. Many locations are open 24 hours a day. Breakfast is available from 11:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m.
A slightly spicy version of regular ketchup that is unique to Whataburger. Ask for it by name when ordering.
The standard burger is served on a five-inch bun. Junior-sized options are available for a smaller portion.
Yes. Whataburger is located near Section 105 inside the ballpark.
Whataburger is Texas-born, open 24 hours, serves larger-than-average burgers and has signature sauces that no other chain offers. It has been a part of Texas life since 1950.
