Fatburger’s Sizzling — A Bold 40-Store Expansion Across Florida

Fatburger is cooking up something big in the Sunshine State.

The iconic California-based burger chain, known for its made-to-order patties, hand-scooped milkshakes, and legacy swagger, has announced an ambitious 40-location expansion across Florida. After a decades-long hiatus and a recent successful reintroduction in Orlando and Tampa, Fatburger is going all-in — partnering with seasoned franchisee Whole Factor Inc. to roll out stores over the next 10 years.

From West Coast Classic to Florida Fixture

Fatburger’s journey back to Florida began in 2021 when it quietly planted its flag with 14 new stores, initially in Central Florida. That soft relaunch was more than a test — it was a taste of things to come. Locations in Celebration and Riverview didn’t just perform well — they exceeded expectations, drawing lines of loyal fans hungry for what the brand dubs “The Last Great Hamburger Stand.”

Now, Fatburger is turning up the heat. With a plan to open four restaurants per year on average, the chain’s footprint is set to stretch from Jacksonville to Tampa, with other key Florida metros in the mix. The first Jacksonville-area location — at 348 Blanding Blvd. in Orange Park — is slated to open later this year in a revamped former Dairy Queen.

A Strategic Bet on Florida’s Appetite

Why Florida, and why now?

Central Florida’s booming population, tourism magnetism, and emerging food scenes have made the region a hotbed for fast-casual experimentation. Whole Factor, led by entrepreneur Spike Singh, has proven its model works here. Now, that proof of concept is being scaled statewide.

Jacksonville, a market that’s rapidly evolving with an influx of new residents and businesses, is the next frontier. Meanwhile, Tampa and Orlando remain cornerstones of the brand’s Florida growth strategy.

What’s on the Menu?

Fatburger’s signature draw is its customizability. Guests can build their burger from the ground up, topping it with everything from fried eggs to chili, paired with classic onion rings or sweet potato fries. Craving something cooler? Real ice cream milkshakes — in flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and Oreo — are a nostalgic nod to its 70+ year heritage.

Many of the upcoming Florida locations will also serve Fatburger’s expanded offerings, including crispy chicken sandwiches, plant-based alternatives, and signature sauces.

A Broader Brand on the Move

This is more than a regional push — it’s part of a calculated national strategy. Fatburger is one of 18 concepts under the FAT Brands umbrella, a multi-brand restaurant conglomerate with over 2,300 locations worldwide. With Florida’s diverse population and year-round demand for fast-casual comfort food, the state represents fertile ground for both brand loyalty and franchise growth.

Whole Factor’s role isn’t just operational — it’s inspirational. Their success could influence FAT Brands’ franchise model in other Southeastern states.

What’s Next?

Here’s the timeline:

Late 2025: Orange Park (Jacksonville area) opening.
2026–2028: Expansion continues across Tampa Bay and Orlando metro areas.
By 2035, 40 Fatburger restaurants will be operating across Florida.

As the burger wars heat up, Fatburger’s bet on Florida may become a case study in how legacy brands can re-emerge stronger with the right partners, strategy, and flavors.

Hungry yet?
Keep your eyes peeled for Fatburger’s Jacksonville debut and follow @FatburgerFlorida for the latest news, locations, and flavor drops.