Whataburger is officially open for business and serving up orders in Dahlonega.
Just ask Steve Smith.
The University of North Georgia Psychological Science professor was the first customer to enjoy the historic first burger at the new Morrison Moore Parkway fast food eatery.
And, from the sound of it, it tasted just like home.
“I grew up in Texas,” he said. “So Whataburger has been a part of my life as long as I can remember.”
With this in mind, Smith declared that he was going to spend the night in the parking lot of the new restaurant so he’d be the first in line for the big June 3 opening.
“I announced that I was going to be camping out,” he said with a laugh “so I could guarantee that I would be customer number one.”
Turns out he didn’t have to.
Even though he turned up with a tent at the ready on Sunday night, his UNG colleagues were able to meet up with management and arrange a surprise party of sorts.
Smith said he started to suspect something was cooking when he decided to show up even earlier that evening, just to ensure a spot at the front of the building.
“I got a little bit suspicious when my son said ‘You can’t go now!’” he said.
SERVING UP A SURPRISE
Instead of having to set up his tent, or sleep in his car, Smith was welcomed into the restaurant where friends, colleagues and fresh Whataburgers awaited.
“The managers said you don’t have to stay here overnight,” he said.
Smith then placed his order, put his cash on the counter and was served up a classic Whataburger with cheese.
And so, did it live up to his lofty expectations?
Smith gave a definite thumbs up.
“It’s just better,” he said. “All I can tell you is they make better burgers.”
Smith’s burger was only the beginning though.
Since the official opening at 11 a.m. on Monday, business has been bustling on the corner of Morrison Moore Parkway and Riley Road.
“Oh yeah,” said Matt Sanders with a laugh, when asked if the first day had been busy.
Still he added that it will be about a month before the doors are open completely.
“From here on out we’ll be open 24 hours,” said Sanders. “But for the first month it will be drive-thru only.”
For Smith, that 24 hours of availability is key.
In fact, on Monday afternoon he was already ready for a Whataburger breakfast, served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.
“If I wake up in the middle of the night and I’m hungry,” he said, “I’ll just make a snack run.”