Whataburger confirms first Asheville restaurant. Here's when it opens
ASHEVILLE - After rumors and wishful thinking, Whataburger fans can rest assured that the burger chain is indeed planning to open its first Asheville restaurant. Whataburger has confirmed that construction will begin soon at 275 Smokey Park Highway, Suite 400, in West Asheville. The Citizen Times reported last spring that the fast-food restaurant planned to open in the city after submitting permits. Whataburger is tentatively slated to open in Spring 2027. Whataburger, founded in Texas, continues to expand in North Carolina, including two locations in Hickory, about an hour east of Asheville, which opened earlier this year. Since 1950, Whataburger has become a Southern staple, popular for its original smash burger-style hamburgers and its Fancy and Spicy Ketchup, made with a "secret sauce." More details will follow as the Asheville project nears its opening. In the meantime, check out the restaurant's menu at whataburger.com . In October, another national chain was introduced in the city: 7 Brew Coffee. The drive-thru beverage destination is at 167 Smokey Park Highway in West Asheville, at the former site of Hungry Bear Cafe . Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Co., covering
