Springfield area's first Whataburger opening

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The Springfield area's first Whataburger restaurant is slated to open for business next week.

Dec. 12 is the launch date for the 1371 U.S. Highway 60 eatery in Republic, according to a news release.

Alexandra Ruffo, a public relations official who spoke on behalf of San Antonio, Texas-based Whataburger, said the restaurant employs more than 100 people. It's led by Operating Partner Sean Tamez, Ruffo said.

The restaurant is slated to launch with drive-thru service only, though a dining room is on the way in the coming weeks, according to the release.

St. Louis-based Knoebel Construction Inc. and Marshfield-based Thornton Masonry Enterprises LLC were among businesses involved in the construction of the Whataburger restaurant in Republic, according to a September Facebook post from the latter company.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the restaurant was held in July, according to a separate news release.

“Republic is the right location for Whataburger, and the Republic community could not be more pleased about the company’s arrival,” said Mayor Matt Russell, in the release.

Whataburger also has three Springfield restaurants in the works at 401 N. Eastgate Ave., 2355 N. Glenstone Ave. and 3880 W. Sunshine St., as well as an Ozark location at 1851 W. Marler Lane, according to its website.

Whataburger, which serves burgers, sandwiches and other menu options, has more than 900 restaurants in 14 states, according to its website.