Whataburger has officially opened its doors in Eatonton, just five months after breaking ground. The new fast-food restaurant, located near Walmart and Waffle House along Hwy. 441 on the west side of town, welcomed a large crowd on its opening day despite the cool, foggy weather.
The first customers to arrive were treated to free meals for a year. Among them was 19-year-old Stephen Munoz, who was the first to park in line at 11 p.m. the night before. Munoz, a local resident, was joined shortly after by Trudi Harwood from Madison. Both received free Whataburger meals once a week for a year, a prize for their early arrival.
“I don’t usually do stuff like this,” Munoz said after receiving his free cheese-and-bacon burger, onion rings, and a Sprite.
“But I thought, ‘Why not?’” Harwood, who had learned about the contest on Facebook the night before, also took a chance and returned later that evening. “I visit my aunt in Eatonton, so this could save me money on those trips,” Harwood said. “And maybe I’ll come more often now.”
The new Whataburger is part of the brand’s ongoing expansion in Georgia. Keith Mason, market leader for Whataburger in Georgia, explained that Eatonton was chosen for its “hometown feel” and growth potential. Mason, who has personal ties to the area, emphasized the company’s commitment to building long-term community relationships. “We want to be a part of the community, get involved with schools and local organizations, and establish roots here,” Mason said.
The first customer in line on opening morning was Taylor Borders, who arrived at 7:40 a.m. with her young daughter, Autumn. “She was great, but getting a little restless,” Borders said. “We were both excited when it finally opened.” Borders received free meal vouchers, as well as Whataburger-branded merchandise, including a mug, pickleball equipment, socks, and a generous supply of ketchup.
Whataburger’s Georgia expansion is being managed by Made to Order Holdings, a Texas-based franchisee. Mason confirmed that the company holds rights to Whataburger locations in several Georgia counties, including Fulton, Walton, DeKalb, and Clayton, as well as areas south of I-20. He also revealed plans for additional locations in the coming years, with a new outlet scheduled for Madison by the end of 2026. “McDonough is next, then Griffin will be our tenth location,” Mason said, with plans to employ approximately 6,000 people and open around 40 stores by 2029.
The Eatonton location currently employs 110 people, including 12 managers, and operates 24 hours a day.
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