Shake Shack Expands with New Restaurant in Leander, Texas

Architectural rendering of the new Shake Shack restaurant in Leander, Texas

Leander, Texas, January 10, 2026

Shake Shack is set to invest nearly $1 million to open a new restaurant in Leander, Texas, expected to be completed by 2027. This will be the third Shake Shack location in the Austin metropolitan area, following the company’s plans for additional restaurants in 2026. This expansion signifies Shake Shack’s commitment to growth in Central Texas, enhancing local employment and dining options.

Leander, Texas – Shake Shack Expands with New $1 Million Restaurant

Leander, Texas – Shake Shack, the New York City-based burger chain, is set to open a new location in Leander, Texas, with an investment of nearly $1 million. The restaurant is expected to be completed by 2027, marking the third Shake Shack in the Austin area.

Details of the New Location

The upcoming Shake Shack will be situated in Leander, a city in the Austin metropolitan area. The establishment is projected to cost approximately $1 million to build and is slated for completion by 2027. This development follows the company’s recent announcement of plans to open two new Austin-area restaurants in 2026, indicating a significant expansion in Central Texas.

Shake Shack’s Expansion Plans

Shake Shack has been actively expanding its presence in Central Texas. The Leander location will be the third Shake Shack in the Austin area, following the company’s recent announcement of plans to open two new Austin-area restaurants in 2026. This expansion reflects Shake Shack’s commitment to increasing its footprint in the region, boosting local employment and providing consumers more dining options.

Background on Shake Shack

Founded in New York City in 2004, Shake Shack has grown from a single hot dog cart in Madison Square Park to a global brand with locations worldwide. Known for its high-quality burgers, hot dogs, and shakes, the chain has become a popular choice for fast-casual dining. The Leander location will contribute to Shake Shack’s ongoing growth and its efforts to bring its offerings to new communities, showcasing a successful model of private investment driving economic development.

Whataburger’s Expansion in Texas

In contrast, Whataburger, a Texas-based fast-food chain, has been focusing on expanding its presence within the state. The company has recently broken ground on its first North Carolina restaurant, marking its 17th state of operation. Despite this national expansion, Whataburger continues to prioritize its home state, with numerous new locations planned across Texas in the coming years. This commitment to local growth places an emphasis on serving Texan consumers while maintaining a competitive landscape alongside national brands like Shake Shack.

Conclusion

The opening of Shake Shack’s new location in Leander underscores the brand’s commitment to expanding its presence in Central Texas. As both Shake Shack and Whataburger continue to grow, the Texas fast-food landscape remains dynamic, offering consumers a variety of dining options to choose from. The progress of these businesses highlights the importance of a thriving entrepreneurial environment, driven by both local commitment and financial investment. Supporting local businesses strengthens the community and fuels continued economic growth.

FAQ

What is the location of Shake Shack’s new restaurant?

The new Shake Shack restaurant is located in Leander, Texas, a city in the Austin metropolitan area.

When is the Shake Shack Leander location expected to open?

The Shake Shack Leander location is expected to be completed by 2027.

How many Shake Shack locations are there in the Austin area?

The Leander location will be the third Shake Shack in the Austin area.

What is the investment for the new Shake Shack restaurant?

The new Shake Shack restaurant in Leander is projected to cost approximately $1 million to build.

Is Shake Shack expanding elsewhere in Texas?

Yes, Shake Shack has announced plans to open two new Austin-area restaurants in 2026, indicating further expansion in Central Texas.

Whataburger’s expansion plans?

Whataburger has recently broken ground on its first North Carolina restaurant, marking its 17th state of operation. Despite this, the company continues to prioritize its home state, with numerous new locations planned across Texas in the coming years.

Key Features

Feature Details
Location Leander, Texas
Investment Approximately $1 million
Expected Completion 2027
Number of Shake Shack Locations in Austin Area 3
Whataburger’s Expansion First North Carolina restaurant; continues to expand in Texas

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Advertising Opportunity:

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!