The Whataburger Story |

In 1950, an adventurous and determined entrepreneur named Harmon Dobson had a bold idea: to serve a burger so big that it took two hands to hold, and so good that after a single bite customers couldn’t help but exclaim, “What a burger!” He named his humble burger stand, located on Ayers Street in Corpus Christi, Texas, “Whataburger.”

The golden age of drive-ins and American automobiles was just getting started back on August 8, 1950, when Harmon Dobson opened Whataburger #1. This tiny burger stand offered something people had never seen: a burger that was so big, they had to hold its five-inch bun with two hands. It was an instant success, and Harmon began to expand the business to other markets. In 1955, Harmon married Grace Williamson and became Whataburger’s “First Couple.” Together, they raised three children: Hugh, Lynne and Tom. By the end of the decade, Harmon would open Whataburger #21 in Pensacola, Florida. It was the first Whataburger restaurant outside the state of Texas.

During the next 50+ years, over 800 Whataburger restaurants were opened, spanning every state from Arizona to Florida, but the most by far in it’s home state of Texas. Ask any Texan – born or transplanted – and they will all have a Whataburger story, recalled with fondness and good enough to make your mouth water.

The Whataburger Story by Greg Wooldridge is a gastronomic adventure that chronicles the journey of a beloved Texas-based fast-food chain that transcended regional boundaries to become a national icon. The book takes readers on a savory exploration, delving into the origins, growth, and enduring success of Whataburger. Wooldridge intertwines the story of this iconic burger joint with the family values and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped its foundation.

The narrative opens with a vivid glimpse into the early days of Whataburger, where the aroma of freshly grilled beef patties permeated the air. Readers are transported to the small, humble Corpus Christi location, where Harmon Dobson’s vision came to life. With colorful anecdotes and historic photographs, Wooldridge paints a portrait of a man with a passion for burgers and an unwavering commitment to quality.

As the book unfolds, readers witness the expansion of Whataburger’s distinctive orange and white-striped A-frame buildings, which became synonymous with the brand. The story unfolds like a well-seasoned recipe, blending entrepreneurial perseverance, community engagement, and a dash of Texan hospitality that sets Whataburger apart.

The Whataburger Story is a delightful journey through time and taste, a must-read for fans of good food and American entrepreneurship. Greg Wooldridge brings to life the legacy of Harmon Dobson and the enduring success of Whataburger with a captivating narrative that leaves readers craving not just the famous burgers but also the heartwarming culture that the brand embodies.

Wooldridge’s storytelling is akin to the sizzle of a Whataburger patty on the grill, evoking the essence of a bustling 1950s diner. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the history, the people, and the flavors that have made Whataburger an integral part of American fast-food culture.

One of the book’s triumphs is its ability to delve beyond the burger and give readers a glimpse into the values that have driven Whataburger’s growth. The focus on family, community involvement, and employee care adds layers of depth to the story, making “The Whataburger Story” not just a culinary history but a heartwarming tale of the American dream.

Wooldridge captures the essence of Whataburger’s appeal, from its distinctive architecture to its timeless menu offerings. The narrative invites readers to taste the love and care that has gone into every Whataburger creation, leaving a lingering aroma of nostalgia and Texas pride.

In conclusion, The Whataburger Story is a literary feast that serves up a generous helping of history, culture, and delectable burgers. For anyone with a fondness for Whataburger or a craving for a well-told entrepreneurial tale, this book is a fulfilling treat. It’s a reminder that behind every iconic fast-food brand is a story, and in Whataburger’s case, it’s a story seasoned to perfection with the flavors of family, perseverance, and great taste.