You Won't Believe the Catfish Recipe at This Fort Smith Gas Station!

Photo byLeonie CloughonUnsplash

Every morning around 2:45 AM, a line forms at a gas station on Wheeler Ave in Fort Smith, stretching out the door for a solid hour. What's all the fuss about? It's not for fuel and donuts, that's for sure. Instead, it's for a family-run business serving some of the most mouthwatering fried food and breakfast items you'll ever taste. Yes, you heard that right—gas station food, but this isn't your ordinary pit stop.

The Hydration Station, a family-owned chain that's been around for over twenty years, is a local gem in Fort Smith. If you're a resident, you already know about this place. If you're planning a visit, make sure to put this on your must-eat list. The daily menu is packed with favorites, but let's focus on a standout: the catfish.

Unlike the hit-or-miss experiences at places like Red Lobster, where fish and chips can be too moist or not crunchy enough, the Hydration Station nails it every time. The catfish here boasts a perfect crunch and a unique seasoning that sets it apart. Manager and lead cook Jaselyn brings her extensive kitchen experience and welcoming smile, making every visit feel like coming home. The staff mirrors her friendliness, offering fast, efficient service in an immaculately clean store despite the heavy foot traffic.

The catfish coating is hard to describe—it's simply divine. The fish itself is tender and flavorful, and the generous portions are an excellent value. You wouldn't expect such a hearty lunch from a gas station, but that's precisely what you'll get here. The side dishes are equally impressive.

The mashed potatoes are always hot and fresh, as is the white gravy, made nightly. The biscuits are baked fresh, too. For something different, try the fried macaroni and cheese bites—unlike anything you've had before. The chicken strips, available in regular and spicy, are another crowd favorite. The spicy variety is particularly popular, offering a perfect crunch with juicy meat inside. Unlike the dry, jerky-like strips from some chain restaurants, the Hydration Station's chicken is always fresh and flavorful.

I often grab entire meals for my kids here, confident in the quality and freshness, and the sides are always hot. Other menu items include egg rolls, fried burritos, and steak-cut potato wedges, available in regular and spicy. Made from real potatoes, these wedges have a delicious coating and are fried just right.

The Hydration Station also serves a full breakfast, made fresh in-house. Whether you're craving a ham and cheese croissant, a breakfast burrito, or a biscuit, you'll leave satisfied. Why settle for fast food when you can enjoy homemade goodness?

If you've never experienced the delicious fried food at the Hydration Station, especially the catfish, I highly recommend stopping by. Supporting local, family-owned businesses is more important than ever, and the Hydration Station has been a Fort Smith staple for decades, offering unbeatable food.

Location: 3316 Wheeler Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901