AUSTIN, TX – October 16, 2026 – On Thursday, October 15, Whatbaurger hosted the first-ever “Whatanight,” a unique culinary evening benefitting the Central Texas Food Bank. Local chefs put an elevated, fine-dining spin on beloved Whataburger classics—from the iconic patty melt to the breakfast taquitos—for nearly 200 guests, raising $46,500 to support Central Texas Food Bank’s mission to increase food access in Central Texas. 

“Whatanight” is an exclusive pop-up collaboration food event underscoring Whataburger's commitment to food security in all the communities its restaurants are located. Chef Philip Speer of Comedor and Garage Pizza partnered with Whataburger to hand-select 10 local chefs who developed a 10-course meal inspired by Whataburger classics and its Texas pride, community connections, and commitment to high-quality, made-to-order food. This was a ticketed event, and all proceeds benefit the Central Texas Food Bank. 

"Whataburger is an incredible partner to the Central Texas Food Bank, not just for this event, but throughout the year," said Sari Vatske, President and CEO of the Central Texas Food Bank. "We’re honored that Whataburger came to us with this signature event, helping ensure all Central Texans have access to nutritious food."

The Central Texas Food Bank and Whataburger began partnering in 2013, and since then Whataburger has supported CTFB with over $400,000 and countless volunteer hours. Every September for Hunger Action Month, Whataburger runs its “buckslip” campaign inviting customers to donate just one dollar at the register or drive-through in exchange for a coupon for a free Whataburger. The campaign supports CTFB, along with food pantries across Whataburger’s service area, and raises enough money to provide millions of meals for neighbors in need across Texas each year. The 2026 buckslip campaign raised $62,000 for CTFB. 

“The Central Texas Food Bank is essential to Central Texas communities, and we are proud to find new and exciting ways to give back to such a special organization,” said Monica Maldonado, Director of Regional Field Marketing for Whataburger. “Supporting the Food Bank means supporting Texans with the good food that they need, and that is core to who we are at Whataburger.”

The Central Texas Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas and is the only Feeding America food bank in the region, connecting people and resources across the region to build a Central Texas where everyone has access to nutritious foods. Partnerships, like that with Whataburger, help support food distribution services, workforce development programs, food access research, and more to help Central Texans.