Renowned Texas franchise Whataburger is rapidly making its way up the East Coast, now serving fans in High Point, North Carolina.

Harmon Dobson first opened Whataburger in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, and on Monday, Oct. 20, it opened its third location in the Triad. The High Point establishment is at 2713 N. Main St., following openings in Winston-Salem and Greensboro.

Dobson was a straightforward individual with a clear and concise goal: to create an unforgettable meal. He created a burger so delicious that customers would say, “What a burger!” after the first bite. Quickly, the five-inch burger cemented its legacy and became a household name in Texas cities. Today, there are 1,200 locations across more than a dozen states, including North Carolina.

On the first day for the new High Point location, doors opened at 9 a.m with the restaurant’s double drive-thru, spacious dining area, and digital menu boards ready to service customers. Other amenities include a custom interior mural that highlights High Point landmarks and the history of the franchise.

Within the first few hours of opening, hundreds of customers entered Whataburger, getting a taste of the venue’s honey butter chicken biscuits, pancakes, and other fan favorites.

“We’ve had a lot of fun,” said Growth Market Leader Preston Hughes. “We’ve had people camp out last night, so they were really excited. The first few [hundred] people got swag gifts; they got some free honey butter chicken biscuits and some breakfast, and they got some sneak peeks.”

Internet personality and customer Justin Sturdivant expressed his excitement for the chain restaurant’s growth.

“I feel like they should’ve been here,” said Sturdivant. “I’m tired of Cookout, and I’m tired of McDonald’s. I’ve been waiting on it; I’m glad that they’re here now. We can try something else.”

Sturdivant also works at Tesla right across the street from Whataburger, in addition to competitors Chick-Fil-A, Bo’Jangles, and Dunkin’.

Operating Partner Anthony Thomas, who oversaw 85 employees on the first day, discussed how Whataburger plans to compete with other chains nearby.

“What we’re bringing to the community is great burgers, quality food, and just like Tesla, they bring quality,” said Thomas. “Our customer-first approach is what we will use to set ourselves apart and show why Whataburger isn’t just another burger joint; it’s an experience.”