White Castle: Castle of Tomorrow
White Castle has launched a new prototype, called “Castle of Tomorrow.” The exterior of the restaurant showcases the classic White Castle architecture, but with new accents and lighting. The biggest difference is the signage, which reads “White Castle” during the day and switches to “Night Castle” at night, hearkening back to the chain’s late-night heritage.
White Castle during the day
Night Castle during the evening
Every inch of the “Castle of Tomorrow” has been designed with both Cravers and team members in mind. The restaurant features a bright and welcoming dining room with higher ceilings, vibrant colors and a sleek, open layout, a nod to the brand’s heritage while reflecting its contemporary energy.
A new dedicated mobile order pickup window provides a faster, smoother experience for guests who order ahead through the Craver Nation Rewards® 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, part of White Castle’s continued commitment to efficiency and customer service.
Smarter Spaces for Team Members
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 reflect White Castle’s dedication to being a certified Great Place to Work®, a distinction the company has earned five consecutive years.
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. As always, a friendly human team member is ready to step in to assist whenever needed. Inside, easy-to-use self-service kiosks give guests another quick and convenient way to order.
Where Innovation Meets Crave Culture, Day and Night
While the “Castle of Tomorrow” is filled with modern features, it remains unmistakably White Castle, proudly local, family-owned, and deeply connected to its Cravers. The exterior design balances familiarity and flair, with classic Castle architecture complemented by sleek new accents and lighting that give the building a fresh, contemporary feel
Utilizing a collaborative effort at the new White Castle prototype in Columbus, Ohio, was created in partnership with WD Partners. Arlington Construction was the general contractor, and the KCI Works team fabricated and installed custom millwork at the order counter, condiments station, and front window bar area.
Founded in 1921, White Castle owns and operates 341 restaurants across the country.
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Be it a new prototype, a remodel, or retro-fit program we can assist in developing the ideal timeline and budget. It has been KCI Works approach in working with Brands, Designers, Architects and Contractors for more than 40 years. The KCI Works team is excited to discuss your next project and how we can assist you in making it a reality. Contact us here >