Burger franchise Wayback Burgers has plans to open a new location at the Locust Grove Shops at 595 Market Place Boulevard, according to a release. The spot is expected to open in late 2026 in about six to eight months, franchise owner Willie Watson told What Now Atlanta.
Watson will operate the restaurant with his wife Phyllis. Watson has worked in the QSR space for more than four decades, working with MacDonald’s and later franchising with Steak ’n Shake. Watson retired from the industry but later expressed interest in franchising with Wayback.
“I’ve had QSR in my blood forever, so I couldn’t just take it easy,” Watson said. “So I told my wife I wanted to get back into the QSR industry and looked to see what was out there.”
The 1,800-square-foot restaurant will feature a patio and offer signature menu items such as the “Cheeeesy” — a double patty with four slices of melted American cheese between a grilled, buttered bun. There are also hand-dipped milkshakes, cheesesteaks, salads, crispy chicken sandwiches and veggie and Impossible burgers on the menu. The space will feature a modern kitchen with glass windows so customers can watch the food being prepared. Dine-in options will feature upholstered banquettes, booths and floating community tables.
“My wife and I chose Wayback Burgers because of its authentic brand identity, strong franchisee support and proven track record of growth,” Watson said in the release. “The brand truly stands out in the fast-casual space by delivering quality, made-to-order food with a nostalgic, all-American feel and we are proud to bring that experience to the Locust Grove community.”
Watson is looking forward to bringing the franchise to the area, which is not far from his own hometown. Eventually, he hopes to expand to additional locations, eyeing areas like Peachtree City.
“I’m excited to go back home, interact with the community and bring a franchise there that’s going to produce a quality product in an environment that is clean,” Watson said.
Founded in 1991 in Connecticut, the fast-casual chain now has more than 170 locations and operates in 35 states.
“We’re proud to continue expanding Wayback Burgers’ footprint in Georgia with the lease signing of our newest location in Locust Grove, which will mark our twelfth location in the state,” Patrick Conlin, president of Wayback Franchising LLC, said in a release. “We look forward to supporting Willie and Phyllis as they introduce Wayback Burgers to the Locust Grove community and share the bold flavors and classic favorites that set our brand apart.”
