Gas station food often faces criticism, but for those on road trips, options can be limited. Across the U.S., many gas stations provide offerings that go beyond the usual packaged snacks, featuring healthy smoothies, gourmet donuts, sushi, and more. Many of these establishments are family-owned and have remained popular for years, with some even donating part of their earnings to charities.
Chowhound recently put together a list of 15 gas station chains known for their exceptional food, based on online reviews. Here’s the rundown.
1. Kwik Trip
Founded in 1965, Kwik Trip, a family-owned convenience store based in Wisconsin, boasts over 850 locations across the Midwest. Known for all-day breakfast sandwiches, hot food bars, and in-house baked specialty donuts, it draws rave reviews. One customer humorously described it as a “five-star restaurant selling gas.”
2. QuikTrip
With over 1,000 locations in 17 states, QuikTrip, which started in Oklahoma, is loved for its craft coffee and seasonal shakes. Popular choices include a variety of roller grill options and exciting flavor combinations like chicken bacon ranch.
3. Maverik
Maverik, present in Utah and 20 other western states, has a distinct food brand called Bonfire, catering to adventurous appetites with burritos, salads, and sandwiches. Their fountain drinks also come with various unique flavor mixers.
4. Kelly’s Market
Established in 1926, Kelly’s Market has 50 locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. Travelers often pick up their beloved cappuccinos, smoothies, tacos, and burritos. Some spots even serve craft pizzas and unique sandwiches like the “Elvis Witch,” filled with peanut butter, bacon, and bananas.
5. Casey’s
Started in 1968 in Iowa, Casey’s has expanded to over 2,900 locations in 20 states. It’s famed for its breakfast pizza featuring eggs, cheese, and sausage gravy, with a variety of crust options. Their spokesperson emphasized a longstanding commitment to quality pizza-making.
6. Royal Farms
Known for its fried chicken across several eastern states, Royal Farms boasts lightly fried chicken and hand-rolled fries. One reviewer even remarked that it “tastes like it’s cooked with soul.”
7. Wawa
Originating as a dairy farm in Pennsylvania, Wawa has become a go-to for more than 1,100 locations along the East Coast. Its popular coffee and seasonal sandwiches are a hit among fans, with many praising the taste of their homemade energy drinks.
8. Hy-Vee
Initially opening as a market in 1930, Hy-Vee has evolved into a full-service convenience store with over 240 locations in the Midwest. It’s a one-stop destination for gas, snacks, groceries, and fresh seafood.
9. Weigel’s
This Tennessee-based chain, which operates over 85 locations, is recognized for its pizza and flavored milk, especially unique variations like Horchata and Orange Creamsicle.
10. Spinx
Founded in South Carolina in 1972, Spinx emphasizes comfort food, featuring fried chicken, pork chops, and sausage croissants, appealing to hungry road travelers.
11. Rutter’s
Based in Pennsylvania with over 90 locations, Rutter’s offers fresh local produce along with its convenience store items. One satisfied customer noted its status as one of the best truck stops around.
12. Buc-ee’s
Starting in Texas, Buc-ee’s has expanded to 54 locations in nine states, gaining fame for having “the cleanest restrooms in America” and offering a diverse range of food like brisket and breakfast tacos.
13. Love’s
Beginning as a single truck stop in Oklahoma, Love’s has now reached over 600 locations across the country, offering hot items like tacos and healthy snacks like fruit cups.
14. 7-Eleven
As the largest convenience store chain, 7-Eleven boasts over 85,000 stores worldwide. Known for its Slurpee and Big Gulp, it also offers premium sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of hot foods.
15. Allsup’s/Yesway
Yesway, which acquired Allsup’s in 2019, has over 400 locations across the Southwest. Its “world-famous” burritos are especially popular, featuring a mix of fried beef and beans along with new offerings like pepperoni pizza burritos.
