Whataburger in South Carolina: Where to Find It and What to Order

Whataburger has one location in South Carolina, in Summerville near Charleston

Whataburger is a Texas-based burger chain that customizes every order to your specifications—you choose the meat, toppings, condiments, and bread type. The single South Carolina location sits in Summerville, about 20 minutes northwest of downtown Charleston, making it a destination stop rather than a convenient neighborhood spot for most of the state.

The chain is known for its late-night hours (many locations stay open until midnight or later) and its made-to-order approach, which means your burger takes longer than a typical fast-food counter but arrives built exactly as you requested. The Summerville restaurant operates within standard daytime hours, so the all-night appeal that defines Whataburger in Texas does not apply here.

Key Takeaways

• Whataburger's Summerville location is the only one in South Carolina, situated in the Charleston suburbs rather than within the city itself.
• Every burger is customized at the register—you specify the meat weight, type of cheese, vegetables, sauces, and bread before it is cooked.
• The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with menu items beyond burgers, including chicken sandwiches, salads, and breakfast tacos.
• Whataburger accepts both dine-in and drive-through orders, and the made-to-order process means wait times are longer than typical fast-food chains.

What makes Whataburger different from other burger chains

Unlike chains where you order a preset burger and receive it within minutes, Whataburger operates on a build-your-own model. You stand at the counter (or order through a kiosk or app) and decide the specifics: single or double patty, beef or turkey, what type of cheese, which vegetables, which sauces. The kitchen then prepares your burger fresh to those exact specifications.

This approach means your order takes 10 to 15 minutes rather than 3 to 5, but regulars view that time as worth the result. The chain also offers items beyond burgers—fried chicken sandwiches, grilled chicken sandwiches, salads with your choice of protein, and a breakfast menu that includes breakfast tacos and pancakes. Drinks come in multiple sizes, and you can add sides like fries, onion rings, or a fried pie.

The Summerville location and how to visit

Whataburger in Summerville is located at 1313 North Main Street, in the heart of the town's commercial district. The restaurant has both dine-in seating and a drive-through window. Parking is available in the lot, and the space is designed for the typical fast-casual experience—order at the counter, find a seat, and your number is called when the food is ready.

Summerville itself is a historic town with tree-lined streets, local shops, and restaurants. If you are visiting the Charleston area and want to try Whataburger, plan for it as part of a Summerville outing rather than a quick detour. The drive from downtown Charleston takes about 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic.

Menu highlights and customization options

The core of the menu is beef burgers, but the customization is extensive. You can choose a 5-ounce patty (the standard), a 10-ounce double, or a triple. Cheese options include American, cheddar, Swiss, provolone, and pepper jack. Toppings span lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, jalapeños, grilled onions, mushrooms, and bacon. Sauces include mustard, mayo, ketchup, hot sauce, ranch, and the house Whataburger sauce.

Beyond burgers, the fried chicken sandwich is a popular order—you can customize it the same way. The grilled chicken sandwich appeals to those seeking a lighter option. Breakfast is served all day and includes tacos filled with eggs, sausage, bacon, or chorizo, plus pancakes and breakfast burritos. Sides include crinkle-cut fries, onion rings, and fried apple or pecan pies. The drink menu features soft drinks, tea, coffee, and shakes in vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.

Ordering methods and timing

At the Summerville location, you can order in person at the counter, through the drive-through window, or via the Whataburger mobile app if you want to place your order ahead. The app lets you build your burger exactly as you want it and pay before you arrive, which can speed up the pickup process. Walk-in orders are also welcome, though you will wait in line at the counter during busy times.

Because every burger is made to order, expect a wait. During lunch and dinner rushes, that can stretch to 20 minutes or more. Off-peak times—mid-morning, mid-afternoon, or late evening—tend to move faster. The drive-through typically moves quicker than the dine-in counter during peak hours, though both involve a wait compared to other fast-food chains.

Whataburger's place in South Carolina dining

South Carolina has no shortage of burger options, from local joints like Fatz Cafe and The Tavern to national chains like Five Guys and Shake Shack. Whataburger fills a specific niche: a made-to-order burger experience with Texas roots and a casual, unpretentious atmosphere. For Charleston-area residents and visitors curious about a regional chain they may have encountered in Texas or other states, the Summerville location offers a chance to try it without traveling far.

The restaurant draws both locals who appreciate the customization and tourists exploring the Summerville area. It is not a destination that requires a special trip from across the state, but if you are already in the Charleston suburbs, it is worth considering alongside other dining options in town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Whataburger in Charleston proper?

No. The only Whataburger in South Carolina is in Summerville, about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. There are no locations within Charleston city limits or elsewhere in the state.

Can I order Whataburger through a delivery app?

Delivery availability depends on the app and the restaurant's current partnerships. Check the Whataburger website or call the Summerville location directly at the phone number listed to confirm whether delivery is offered and which services are accepted.

What are the hours of operation?

Hours vary by day and season. Contact the Summerville location directly or check the Whataburger website for current hours, as they may differ from the Texas locations that stay open late into the night.

Do I have to customize my burger, or can I order a standard one?

You can order any burger as simple or as loaded as you want. If you prefer a basic cheeseburger with just ketchup and mustard, that is an option. The customization is available but not required.

How long does it take to get my food?

Expect 10 to 15 minutes for a made-to-order burger during normal times. During lunch and dinner rushes, it can take 20 minutes or longer. Using the mobile app to order ahead can reduce your wait time.