Hidden Roadside Gems - Woody's Smokehouse

I’ll admit it.

I’m a public bathroom snob.

I will literally hold it if there is not an acceptable bathroom in the nearby vicinity.

I know I’m not the only one, either. That is precisely why Buc-ee’s has those lovely bathrooms and advertises them on billboards.

Of course, there are plenty of other reasons to love Buc-ee’s. If you happen to be an aficionado of Buc-ee’s and you’re in the Centerville, Texas area, don’t miss out on the chance to stop by Woody’s Smokehouse, located just off I-45. This place has been in business since 1978 and they are open 365 days a year.

They literally have it all. Proclaimed as the Beef Jerky Capital of the World, Woody’s boasts some seriously delicious barbecue. Choose from such traditional favorites like brisket and pork ribs, or if you're feeling adventurous, ask for some bacon-wrapped quail or jalapeno boudin. All barbecue purchases come with complimentary pickles, onions, barbecue sauce, and pinto beans.

Not in the mood for barbecue? Woody's also has a grill/deli where you can order a wagon burger, loaded fries, baked potato, salad or Blue Bell Ice cream. On more than one occasion when we've stopped, Woody's was running a special. A chopped brisket sandwich for .99? If you happen to stop when they are running one of their specials, be sure to buy some extras to bring home for that price!

Although Woody's is popular, there's usually plenty of seating. Choose from one of the three dining areas, complete with bar height stools and tables or one of the extra-long picnic tables. All seating areas feature Woody's branded barbecue sauce on the table, paper towels and a basket of wipes to wipe off those sticky fingers after you're done eating. Before you leave the dining area, make sure you stop by the selfie wall, complete with greenery and a lighted Memories at Woody's sign, to snap a pic and document your stop!

While the food at Woody's is certainly reason enough to stop, make sure you also allow ample time for shopping. Along with a nice selection of books, women's wear, jewelry, candles, and toys, Woody's also has a massive selection of baked goods, sauces, and canned vegetables. These are not just any canned vegetables, either. You'll find plenty of favorite traditional options like dill pickles, chow chow, and pickled okra, but you can also find exotic choices such as pickled quail eggs.

When it comes to jellies and sauces, Woody's has you covered there, too. Bacon bourbon barbecue sauce, jalapeno pepper jelly, red pepper jelly, apple pie syrup, and all kinds of fruit preserves. Got a sweet tooth? The bakery display of cakes, pies, fudge, and brownies right as you walk in the door is sure to persuade you to treat yourself. Chances are, you'll probably find some treats to try you've never even heard of. Sesame Apricot, Salted Sour Lemon, and Ginger Orange are just a few of the cookie choices I spotted on my most recent trip. Before you leave, be sure to stock up on some jerky or other meats to take home and fill your freezer.

Woody's has all kinds of pre-packaged meats that are sure to tempt you, including breakfast sausage, marinated quail breast, German sausage, and more. Although the front parking lot is not spacious enough to accommodate larger vehicles, RV and fifth-wheel parking is available in the back. If you happen to be traveling near Centerville, Woody's is definitely a stop you shouldn't miss out on. Clean bathrooms complete with self-contained stalls, a la Buc-ee's style, along with powerful Dyson hand driers make Woody's the perfect place to stop for lunch and a break when you're traveling near Centerville.

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