Whataburger Opens in Largo, FL
Texas-based fast-food chain Whataburger has opened its first new location in the Tampa Bay area in 15 years. The new restaurant is located in Largo on Ulmerton Road and marks a significant return to the region for the popular chain.
- The new 3,671-square-foot restaurant is a conversion of a former Joella's Hot Chicken, with the renovation costing a reported $1.3 million. - This location is the first of eight Whataburger restaurants planned for the Tampa Bay area by the end of 2027, with the next locations scheduled for Brandon and Lutz in spring 2026. - Prior to this opening, Whataburger had been absent from the Tampa Bay market since 2009, when it closed all of its previous locations in the area. - The company has been expanding its Florida presence, with 48 locations currently operating across the state. - Before the grand opening, Whataburger made a $10,000 donation to Feeding Tampa Bay's School Pantries program. - The majority of Whataburger's more than 1,000 locations are company-owned, but the chain has renewed its franchising efforts after a 20-year hiatus following a majority investment by BDT Capital Partners in 2019. - To celebrate the grand opening, the first 100 customers in line received exclusive merchandise, and the restaurant is offering a free kids' meal with the purchase of a "Whatameal" for the first month. - The Largo restaurant will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
