With a history that dates back to 1937, Harris Ranch Express BBQ in Coalinga, California, is “an oasis for fuel and flavor.” The 24-hour operation sees chefs arriving at 5 a.m. to fire up the smokers for a menu packed with brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, ribs and more.
Harris Ranch experienced a moment in the spotlight late last year as part of a joint promotional campaign by Shell and the Food Network. In it, Shell leaned on its independent branded convenience stores, calling out talented chefs and operators for their foodservice acumen.
Station Nation was a video and digital promotion in which Food Network host Hunter Fieri—son of Guy Fieri—traveled across the United States to feature unique food destinations located in Shell stations.
“What was interesting about all this is how the evolution of food in gas stations has changed so much in the past couple of years,” Fieri told the Dallas Observer. “Going from frozen food and hot dogs, and warm, ready-to-go burritos to legitimate meals, and like good meals.”