Whataburger returns to Central Florida after 17 years

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A popular Texas burger chain is back in Central Florida, and customers were ready to welcome it with long lines and plenty of excitement.

Whataburger officially reopened its doors in the area Thursday with the launch of its new location on East Colonial Drive.

The opening drew crowds of eager fans, with lines stretching around the corner as customers waited for a chance to be among the first to order from the restaurant.

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The return marks a comeback for the chain, which previously had locations across Central Florida before they all closed by 2009.

One customer went the extra mile to be first in line. She began camping out at 5 a.m. Wednesday, spending more than a day waiting for the doors to open Thursday.

Her dedication paid off, she became the first person to walk into the new restaurant and received free Whataburger food for a year.

The opening brought together longtime fans and newcomers eager to experience the chain’s burgers, fries, and other menu items as Whataburger begins its latest chapter in Central Florida.

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