What a great article! Well written & fun to read. I can imagine the horror on many people's faces @ the idea of getting lunch/ dinner @ some grungy looking gas

What a great article! Well written & fun to read. I can imagine the horror on many people's faces @ the idea of getting lunch/ dinner @ some grungy looking gas station. But growing up in the south, & having a lot of experience traveling all over the south by car, I can really appreciate this. These type of places are everywhere. You will have to mingle with some interesting local clientele, but if you can get past the rough facade, you can really find some true gems. It's easy to pass them up without giving it a second thought. It can be a risk, & sometimes you'll get burnt. But if you have a little sense of adventure, it can pay off big time. When I was traveling a lot for an old job all around the south, it became a game of mine to try and find the best side of the road food I could. If I resorted to chain fast food on my way home, I considered it a failure. This article really captures the energy of these type of establishments. And to be fair, it doesn't have to be a gas station . Tons of fantastic BBQ or 'meat & threes' are sprinkiled all over if you keep your eyes peeled. I had some really great meals, & got a nice dose of culture along the way.