Two years ago, locals had to drive four hours to Thomasville to taste Whataburger‘s food. Today, the Texas-based fast food chain has three locations within Athens city limits. The newest spot at 700 U.S. Hwy. 29 opened for drive-thru service on June 17, completing the company’s Athens-Clarke County expansion plan. Here’s how they did it.
Whataburger’s Athens Timeline
March 31, 2022: A groundbreaking ceremony took place at the Atlanta Highway site. The restaurant was expected to open in the fall, though no exact date was given.
August 18, 2023: Whataburger revealed plans for a fourth location at 700 US-29 in the Kroger Marketplace retail development. This became the third location within Athens city limits.
November 1, 2023: The first Athens Whataburger opened for drive-thru service at 3201 Atlanta Hwy., meeting the fall deadline. Staff trained for six weeks before the restaurant opened for indoor dining.
May 28, 2024: The second Athens Whataburger opened for drive-thru service at 3321 Lexington Rd., with a six-week training period similar to the Atlanta Highway location. The dining area will open along with online and mobile ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery options.
June 17, 2024: The third Athens Whataburger opened at 700 U.S. Hwy. 29 with drive-thru service only. Located next to the Kroger Marketplace fuel station, it features two drive-thru lanes with digital screens. A Whataburger representative told the Banner-Herald that a grand opening ceremony will be held when the indoor dining area opens.