Located in the back corner of a fuel station that's been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth, lies a small flat-top grill that churns out burgers so divine, you'd swear they were grilled by the burger gods themselves.
Growing up here, I can't recall a time when Thrift Way wasn’t the beating heart of the Graham, TX community. At some point in ancient history—no clue when exactly—they added a flat top and deep fryer and began blessing patrons with breakfast and lunch.
Given that Graham runs on oil, farming, and ranching, the loyal patrons are mostly blue-collar warriors. They swing by, fuel up, grab a drink, possibly a snack, and embark on their daily adventures.
I popped by on a Friday just after the lunch rush, ordering up a cheeseburger, all the way with mustard and mayo. No fries for me because, well, I’m trying this thing called “healthy eating.”
The lady behind the spatula expertly pulled a thick patty from a plastic sleeve and tossed it on the grill with the confidence of a culinary artist. This wasn’t a run-of-the-mill frozen patty, it might even be hand-packed. You could tell by its charmingly imperfect shape.
As the grill worked its magic, she threw the buns on to toast them just right—crispy yet soft, like a toasted marshmallow on a summer night.
With meticulous finesse, she navigated the patty across the grill, harnessing her intimate knowledge of its hotspots. She pressed down gently, going for a smash-burger vibe without draining the juicy goodness.
Grabbing a large cup, I filled it with unsweet tea, brewed fresh by the Thriftway tea masters. One sip and I was transported to tea heaven. Before I knew it, I was already back for a refill.
When my burger was ready, it was clear this wasn’t 'fast food'—this was burger artistry. I tipped my hat to the culinary wizard, dropped a few bucks in the tip jar, and walked out, brown paper bag in hand. The telltale grease stain was like a badge of honor. As Dr. Nick from The Simpsons says, “If you’re not sure about something, rub it against a piece of paper. If the paper turns clear, it's your window to weight gain.”
Since there were no tables around, I ventured to the local park to eat my burger and commune with the ducks and squirrels. But with temperatures in the mid-30s, my car became my dining room.
As I took a bite, burger juice dripped onto my shirt. Typical! Time to employ Guy Fieri’s “hunch” technique—bend, bite, arms at 45-degree angles—to keep the toppings from landing on my belly. Not easy in a car, but thank goodness for those extra napkins from my burger sensei.
Next time you’re passing through Graham, TX around lunchtime, don’t make the mistake of driving by. Stop, order a burger, and enjoy one of the finest gas station culinary experiences around.
Thrift Way Deli is located at 184 Elm Street, Graham, TX.
- Patty Size and Style: medium thick, looks to be hand formed
- Cooking style: grilled on a flat top
- Char: nice char across the patty
- Bun: soft, lightly toasted
- Vegetables: fresh green lettuce, onions, pickles and tomatoes
- Napkins needs: better grab a handful, it is juicy
- Special attributes: in a small gas station with the friendliest staff and some of the best tea available
- Ownership: local gas station deli
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