Gas Station Gourmet

Fill up something other than your tank at local convenience stores.

We’ve all been seduced by convenience stores, haven’t we? While you’re paying for 12 gallons of gasoline it’s just so easy to tack on $1.70 for a Big Gulp and gummy worms. But what if we told you it was possible to eat more than trash at your favorite convenience store? We’re talking serious food here.

Popcorn at AutoTronics

This is where many a Drury frat boy buys his Friday 12er of Natty Light. The best part is, it smells so good in there. That’s because of the Ozark Mountain Popcorn Company, with its 34 different flavors, including chili-cheese, white cheddar ranch, peanut butter and root beer float (that one got them a mention in Time magazine). You can buy a small bag for a dollar or so, or buy a 55-gallon bag for mom—she’ll like it better than Natty Light. 700 N. Benton Ave., 417-866-5555, ozarkmountainpopcorn.com

Champ’s Chicken at Jump Stop

This northside chicken joint, located inside a Phillips 66/Jump Stop offers good, filling lunch combos for reasonable prices, like the three chicken strip combo with potato wedges and a biscuit for $3.99. They’ve also got breakfast dishes, and you can even get a 96-piece picnic set with 24 breasts, wings, legs and thighs for $96. God bless the Ozarks. 2540 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-869-5250 -Evan Fisk

Chinese food at Quik Pantry

Not to be confused with Kwik Pantry, this outpost on waaaay West Republic Road has a small window behind the counter, through which comes takeout boxes from Kowloon Express, the Chinese joint in the back. You need to order by calling in advance, and Kowloon has recently cut its menu down to the basics, but it might just be the most interesting combination in town. 3260 W. Republic Rd., 417-881-4345

Fried vittles at Fast ‘N Friendly

If you’re driving between Springfield and Ozark or Branson, we suggest a stop at the Fast ‘N Friendly at U.S. 65 and Evans Road (near Millwood). Here’s you’ll find fried mac-and-cheese (six for $1.59), deep-fried creamed corn (10 for $1) and potato wedges. We’re not sure how your arteries will respond, but we’re pretty sure your taste buds will say thankya’! 3249 E. Evans Rd., 417-882-9522

Do you have a favorite gas station food item? Share with us at editor@springfieldgo.com