A popular Texas-based fast food chain is making a comeback in the Tampa Bay area.

Whataburger has filed plans to open a new restaurant at 10150 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

The 3,671-square-foot building was most recently home to Joella’s Hot Chicken, which closed in October 2024. Prior to Joella’s, the space housed a Pollo Tropical, and before that, a Burger King.

According to documents submitted to the City of Largo in early 2025, Whataburger is proposing a $1.3 million remodel of the existing structure, including minor architectural and aesthetic changes, as well as interior renovations to the kitchen, lobby, and dining room.

The new restaurant will feature a drive-thru and seat 62 patrons.

The move marks Whataburger’s return to the region after shuttering its locations more than 15 years ago. The company originally expanded into Tampa Bay in the early 2000s but closed its locations several years later.

One former location at 8700 Ulmerton Road in Largo is now a Popeyes.

In August 2024, Whataburger announced plans to re-enter the Tampa Bay market with a series of new locations slated to open beginning in 2026.

The Largo site appears to be one of the first in that new expansion wave. A new Whataburger location is also in the works for Lutz.

Founded in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger built its following with its now-iconic five-inch burgers, made to order and served hot from a modest roadside stand.

Today, the brand operates more than 1,040 restaurants across 16 states.

In addition to its burgers, Whataburger is known for its breakfast menu, customizable sandwiches, and fan-favorite condiments like Spicy Ketchup and Creamy Pepper Sauce.

The chain is also well known for its 24-hour service.

No official opening date has been announced for the Largo location, and Whataburger has not yet responded to a request for comment.