Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes wanted Whataburger in KC. He could get 6. Here’s what we know
Back in 2018, beloved Texas-based Whataburger offered to send Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes some of his favorite ketchup and a T-shirt. He tweeted back, “I just want a store in Kansas City!”
His wish is coming true, and then some.
Four sites are in the works around the metro, according to city planning departments. Whataburger has confirmed that at least one will open this year. And there’s word of at least two more possible locations.
“So anxiously awaiting for Whataburger to appear,” one fan said on Twitter. “I’ve waited my whole life for this.”
Here’s an update on the locations:
▪ Lee’s Summit: This site was the first local confirmation that Whataburger was coming to the area. The city has approved part of Whataburger’s final development plan at 1460 N.E. Douglas St. near Saint Luke’s East Hospital.
▪ Overland Park: Plans have been approved for 8420 W. 135th St., site of a former Salty Iguana Mexican Restaurant. Whataburger wants to demolish the building and put up a new 3,751-square-foot red-brick building with a double drive-thru.
▪ Blue Springs: 905 N.W. Missouri 7, on the site of a former Winstead’s. The city is working through issues on road improvements with the current property owner, who prefers to lease to the new tenant. The property is for sale for $1.5 million.
▪ Independence: 18902 E. U.S. 40 highway. A former bank building has been demolished between Valley View Road and McDonald’s. Whataburger will face U.S. 40, so the site received a new address. Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers will take another new building there.
But other locations may be coming. Several sources say the chain also wants to open at 95Metcalf, at the southeast corner of 95th Street and Metcalf Avenue, in Overland Park. Another possibility in the Barry Road/Interstate 29 area.
Fans are all for more locations. On Twitter they’ve posted: “Come on Barry Road/I29.”
And they’re offering suggestions, for example the old Applebee’s site on Barry Road. Applebee’s officials said that location closed on Aug. 26 but it was not pandemic-related. Chase Bank plans to open on the site later this year.
“Whataburger (should open) in the empty Burger King next to the Truman Sports Complex”
“Urban core or it doesn’t count”
“Open one in Westport! Where I live!”
“What about San Diego? Yeah San Diego!!!”
But some consider the chain overrated: “You all are going to be so disappointed. It’s just another fast food joint lol.”
This story was originally published March 16, 2021 at 1:32 PM.