In-N-Out Burger May Be Coming to Manvel in 2028 Along Highway 288

Manvel residents may soon have another major burger chain to add to their local dining options. In-N-Out Burger is planning a new drive-thru restaurant along Highway 288, according to a project registration filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

The proposed restaurant would be located at 21622 Highway 288 in Manvel, within the Manvel Town Center development. The project calls for a freestanding, 3,890-square-foot restaurant with a drive-thru, with construction scheduled to begin in September 2027 and wrap up in June 2028.

While In-N-Out has not publicly confirmed an opening date for the Manvel location, the state filing provides a closer look at what could become another addition to the rapidly expanding commercial corridor south of Houston.

What We Know About the Proposed Manvel In-N-Out

According to the TDLR registration, the project involves building a new standalone In-N-Out Burger restaurant with a drive-thru.

Here are the details listed in the filing:

• Location: 21622 Highway 288, Manvel, TX 77578

• Restaurant size: 3,890 square feet

• Estimated project cost: $1.5 million

• Construction start: September 13, 2027

• Estimated completion: June 12, 2028

• Project type: New construction with a drive-thru

The project was registered on October 20, 2026, and lists Manvel Town Center LTD as the property owner. Apogee Architectural Partners is identified as the design firm.

The filing describes the development as a freestanding, single-serve fast-food restaurant with drive-thru service. However, it does not provide a confirmed public opening date or details about the restaurant's final design and operating hours.

It's also worth noting that a construction registration reflects a planned project, not confirmation that construction has started or that the restaurant is guaranteed to open on the estimated schedule.

Where Will the New In-N-Out Be Located?

The proposed restaurant is planned for 21622 Highway 288, within the Manvel Town Center area near the intersection of Highway 288 and Highway 6.

Manvel Town Center is a large commercial development designed to bring shopping, dining, services and everyday conveniences closer to residents in Manvel and surrounding communities.

The center already features major retailers and restaurants, including H-E-B, Lowe's and other national brands. Its expanding tenant lineup is part of the broader commercial growth taking place along the Highway 288 corridor.

The development's site plan has also identified In-N-Out as a proposed tenant, alongside other restaurant brands such as Portillo's, Chick-fil-A, Chuy's and Olive Garden.

If the project moves forward, the new location would give Manvel residents another convenient fast-food option without having to travel farther into Pearland or Houston.

In-N-Out vs. Whataburger: Another Burger Debate for Houston-Area Residents

For Texas residents, the possibility of another In-N-Out location brings up a familiar debate: In-N-Out or Whataburger?

Both chains have loyal followings, but they offer different takes on the classic American burger.

California-based In-N-Out is known for its relatively simple menu, fresh ingredients, signature Double-Double burger and popular Animal Style option. Its straightforward menu and made-to-order approach have helped build a devoted customer base across the country.

Texas-based Whataburger, meanwhile, has a long history in the state and is known for its larger burgers, extensive customization options, breakfast menu and signature orange-and-white branding.

The two chains have become popular choices for burger lovers throughout Texas, and their growing presence in the Houston suburbs gives residents more opportunities to pick a favorite.

Interestingly, the Manvel Town Center site plan lists both Whataburger and In-N-Out among its restaurant locations, making the development an especially interesting stop for anyone who enjoys comparing the two burger chains.

What This Could Mean for Manvel's Growing Restaurant Scene

The proposed In-N-Out location is another sign of the growing demand for retail and dining options in the communities south of Houston.

Manvel has continued to attract new residential developments, retailers and restaurants as more people look to suburban communities along Highway 288. Its location provides access to Pearland, the Texas Medical Center and other major employment centers, making the area an increasingly important part of the Greater Houston region.

As the local population grows, national restaurant brands and retailers are finding more opportunities to establish locations closer to these expanding residential communities.

For Manvel residents, developments like Manvel Town Center could mean fewer trips elsewhere for shopping, dining and everyday errands.

When Could In-N-Out Open in Manvel?

Based on the current TDLR filing, construction of the proposed In-N-Out Burger restaurant is scheduled to begin September 13, 2027, with an estimated completion date of June 12, 2028.

That puts a potential opening sometime in 2028, although the actual opening date will depend on construction progress, permitting and the company's plans.

For now, the project remains at the registration stage, and additional announcements from In-N-Out would be needed to confirm the restaurant's opening.

If the plans move forward, Manvel residents could soon have another place to grab a Double-Double, fries and a shake along Highway 288.

So, Manvel locals, which side are you on: In-N-Out or Whataburger?

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