FL Has Fewer Than 50 Whatburgers - Most In North FL. That's About To Change As New Stores Come South

Photo byrankieleon from Belgium, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After writing about restaurants for years on Newsbreak, I believe that Floridians love retro burger joints. When I wrote about the possibility of a Cook Out with its "cult following" in Florida, readers were very interested. Whataburger is similar, in that it is also said to have a "cult following." Florida has around 45 Whataburgers - mostly in the northern part of the state. That's about to change as Tampa and Bradenton are reportedly getting new stores.

About Whataburger: This eatery began in the 1950s in Texas. Today, each burger is still made to order with fresh, never-frozen beef served on a toasted five-inch bun. There are over 800 stores today, but Florida has less than fifty.

The chain is well-received in Florida. For example, a store in Gulf Breeze earns 4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Many noted the flavor and size of the burgers. A reviewer named Tina wrote:

"My husband grew up in Texas where Whataburger is very popular. We don't have them here in TN, yet anyways... I believe he could eat that every day when we visit the area. He loves their double burger. I have to say their fries are tasty with the gravy."

Whataburger Is Heading South In Florida: While Floridians and visitors have been able to enjoy the chain in North Florida, Floridians in Central and South Florida have missed out. That will soon change.

A franchisee is reportedly bringing a Whataburger to Bradenton's Marketplace at Heritage Harbour Shopping Center and a location in Tampa is planned for 2026, although a specific location has not been named.

The author is not affiliated with Whataburger or any other restaurants.