White Castle unveiled its “Castle of Tomorrow” prototype in Columbus, Ohio, on a site that has hosted generations of diners — it’s been a White Castle location for 40 years.
The 104-year-old fast-food chain worked with Ohio-based WD Partners to reimagine the customer experience in its latest iteration. “This new Castle reflects the best of who we are — passionate about innovation, hospitality and our people,” says Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. “Every detail, from the kitchen layout to the mobile ordering experience, was thoughtfully designed to help our team members shine and to make every Craver’s visit more enjoyable and efficient.”
Images courtesy of White Castle
The restaurant features a bright and welcoming dining room with high ceilings, vibrant colors and an open layout.
A new dedicated mobile order pickup window provides a faster, smoother experience for guests who order ahead through the chain’s app, while keeping the front counter clear for walk-in customers. The double drive-thru now includes hospitality doors that allow team members to personally deliver meals to guests in their cars.
Behind the counter, the new kitchen design emphasizes efficiency, comfort and ergonomics, creating a more inviting and functional environment for team members. Enhanced back-of-house layouts, streamlined prep zones and upgraded break spaces.
The restaurant also features the latest in restaurant technology, including the newest version of Flippy, the robotic fry station assistant, and Julia, White Castle’s AI-powered drive-thru ordering system named for beloved team member Julia Joyce. And a human team member is ready to step in to assist whenever needed. Inside, self-service kiosks give guests another quick and convenient way to order.
A sign that reads “White Castle” by day transforms to “Night Castle” after dark.
Curb Appeal
The exterior design balances familiarity and flair, with classic Castle architecture complemented by sleek new accents and lighting that gives the building a fresh look.
At the top of it all shines a first-of-its-kind brand sign that reads “White Castle” by day and transforms to “Night Castle” after dark, a playful expression of the company’s renowned late-night identity.
“‘The Castle of Tomorrow’ celebrates both where we’ve been and where we’re going,” Richardson says. “It’s a place that honors our century-old promise to bring people together over hot, tasty Sliders while introducing new technologies and experiences that keep White Castle as relevant and craveable as ever.”
