What-A-Burger in Virginia Has Been Serving Mouthwatering Burgers and Ice Cream for Over 65 Years

Delicious burgers are a staple here in Virginia. From old-fashioned drive-ins to creative, trendy kitchens, there are countless places to get your burger fix. But nothing beats the classic cheesburger experience, which is exactly what you'll find at What-A-Burger in Newport News.

The history of What-A-Burger in Virginia—not to be confused with the Texas Whataburger franchise, which also began in the 1950s—started over 65 years ago. This iconic kitchen in Newport News was opened by a man named Jack Branch in 1958. Come along with us and see why a visit here is like stepping back in time—in the best, most delicious way possible!

If you're someone who enjoys a classic, hearty burger, look no further. When you visit this beloved local eatery, you'll feel as though you've traveled back in time by a few decades. On the menu, you'll find an array of classic burger-joint offerings as well as a few bonus items, such as pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, and ice cream.

But what sets What-A-Burger apart from the other burger joints is the size of the burger buns. They're much bigger than your typical fast food variety. Another fun part of getting these delicious burgers in Virginia is ordering up a side of their specialty crinkle fries. They’re served piping hot, perfectly golden, and oh-so-delicious.

Another thing to note when you visit What-A-Burger: this isn't fast food. Whatever you order from the menu is truly made-to-order, so you may have to wait a little for your food to arrive. But by all accounts, the wait is worth it; food is served hot and fresh.

You can take your order to go, or you can dine outside on the simple yet cozy picnic benches. So, the next time you find yourself craving a quick, casual burger in Virginia, you'll want to make a beeline to this local chain with some impressive Virginia history.

For more What-A-Burger history, updates, and hours, check out the What-A-Burger Newport News Facebook page. Need even more convincing? This recent review underscores just what makes What-A-Burger such a hidden gem:

"This place is a no-nonsense burger joint, and it's a treasure to all who have lived here a while...It isn't often I'm this far out to get them, but when I'm heading this direction, you bet your boots I'm stopping there for some cheeseburgers all-the-way!"

Have you ever visited this classic What-A-Burger in Virginia? If so, what are your favorite menu items? What's your go-to spot for the best burgers in Virginia? Share this article with a friend and start planning your next great burger adventure!

Looking for more adventures? Plan your own trip through Virginia with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.