Texas Burger Chain Whataburger Announces New Orlando Location

The popular Texas-based fast-food restaurant is expanding its footprint in Florida.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Whataburger, the iconic Texas-based burger chain, is planning to open a new restaurant in Orlando, Florida. The 2,554-square-foot location will be situated in the Town Park Shopping Center along East Colonial Drive and is approved for a full drive-thru setup. While Whataburger previously operated restaurants in the Orlando and Ocala areas, those closed in 2009. Today, the chain has 48 locations across Florida, with the closest current restaurant to Orlando being in Largo, west of Tampa.

Why it matters

Whataburger's expansion into the Orlando market signals the chain's continued growth beyond its Texas roots. The new location will provide Floridians with access to the brand's popular made-to-order burgers and distinctive orange-and-white branding, which has earned the company a devoted following. This move also highlights the ongoing competition and evolution of the fast-food landscape in the state.

The details

The new Whataburger location in Orlando will occupy a 2,554-square-foot vacant former restaurant space at 12305 E. Colonial Drive, in the Town Park Shopping Center. County permitting documents indicate the restaurant will feature a full drive-thru setup, including a directional sign, clearance bar, canopy, menu board, and drive-thru window. An opening timeline has not yet been announced.

  • Whataburger previously operated locations in Orlando and Ocala, but those restaurants closed in 2009.
  • Today, Whataburger lists 48 locations across Florida, with the closest currently open restaurant to Orlando being in Largo, west of Tampa.

The players

Whataburger

A Texas-based fast-food restaurant chain known for its made-to-order burgers and distinctive orange-and-white branding. The company was founded in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1950 and has steadily expanded beyond its Texas roots in recent years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

An opening timeline for the new Orlando Whataburger location has not yet been announced.

The takeaway

Whataburger's expansion into the Orlando market demonstrates the chain's continued growth beyond its Texas origins and highlights the ongoing competition and evolution of the fast-food landscape in Florida.