MIAMI — Burger King's first Whopper Bar has opened at Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Fla., featuring a customizable, premium and indulgent Whopper-based menu. The chain also plans for premium offerings in all of its stores as it rolls out a new broiler.
"The official opening of the world's first Whopper Bar is designed to deliver the ultimate 'Have it your way' experience," said Russ Klein, president, global marketing, strategy and innovation, Burger King Corp. "This concept allows us to deliver America's favorite burger in a completely personalized and premium way, and serves as a unique 'innovation lab' for new burgers."
The Whopper Bar allows customers to select from a Whopper sandwich, Double Whopper sandwich or the new Steakhouse XT — an upscale burger that boasts an extra-thick patty — and then choose from 22 different Whopper sandwich toppings.
Sandwiches are built to order by an expert "Whopper-ista" from the Whopper Topper, a visible toppings theater that allows guests to choose from favorites like A.1. steak sauce, smoked bacon, Angry onions and guacamole. Guests looking for a little guidance can opt for "Bar Favorites," which include new sandwiches such as the Bourbon Whopper sandwich, Three-Cheese Steakhouse XT and Pepper Bacon Steakhouse XT burgers, or more familiar offerings such as the Angry Whopper sandwich.
Whopper Bar: Restaurant of the future
The Whopper Bar is a completely new, enhanced spin-off concept of the traditional restaurant but features a crisp, modern, bar-like look and feel that utilizes the Whopper sandwich's flame-broiling as inspiration, according to a news release.
Crew uniforms emphasize the red, black and gray color scheme of the bar setting, and boast a more contemporary cut that matches the look and feel of the new restaurant. The product packaging also is all new.
Beyond the first Whopper Bar at Universal CityWalk, Burger King Corp. is planning to introduce the concept on a global scale over the next six to 12 months, including Munich in early summer. It also is targeting additional U.S. and international locations, such as Los Angeles, New York and Singapore.
The Whopper Bar also features a Burger King Studio kiosk where guests can create on-site customized T-shirts using original designs by young, cutting-edge artists who were inspired by the Burger King brand.
Burger King Studio first hit the underground scene in Chicago last fall. The outpost at Universal CityWalk marks the next stage of the concept, which Burger King Corp. makes available via an interactive Web site. The vision for Burger King Studio includes satellite and live installation events aimed at building local affinity for the streetwise gear and a robust line of wearables and lifestyle gear. The company plans to feature these designs in urban boutiques and niche stores.
