What do spatchcocked turkeys, UFO encounters, and gas station sweet potato soufflé have in common? They're all part of Al Hebert's extraordinary life story. Known across America as the Gas Station Gourmet, Al has spent 14 years uncovering culinary treasures hiding behind fuel pumps, documenting his discoveries for the National Association of Convenience Stores magazine.
Before becoming a celebrated food explorer, Al walked a fascinating career path. For 15 years, he served as a sheriff's deputy handling special investigations, where he learned valuable life lessons—including a cautionary tale about wives who've "had enough" of their husbands. His law enforcement skills eventually took him to healthcare, developing educational programs at Memorial Hospital in Lake Charles, which unexpectedly led to television opportunities.
The Gas Station Gourmet concept was born during Al's media travels when he discovered a gas station that "smelled like your grandmother's kitchen on Sunday afternoon." That chance encounter sparked a question: how many other incredible dining experiences were hiding in America's convenience stores? The answer has taken him across the country, from a Round Rock establishment housing one of Texas's five best wine collections to a Noonday store serving Cornish game hen.
Louisiana holds a special place in Al's heart for gas station cuisine. He raves about Port Quick Shop in New Iberia, where a former Merrill Lynch employee returned to run his parents' store and now serves remarkable seafood and sweet potato soufflé. He's created a practical resource for fellow adventurers—the Gas Station Vacation Map (gasstationgourmet.com/map)—marking exceptional locations with descriptions and even bathroom quality ratings.
Beyond his food explorations, Al delights in sharing personal cooking passions and misadventures, from his controversial no-bake fruitcake to family "interventions" about his enchilada casserole. His genuine enthusiasm and willingness to try new approaches remind us that culinary treasures often hide in the most unexpected places. Next time you're filling your tank, consider stepping inside—you might discover your next favorite meal.
The podcast was made possible through partnerships with Logic Refrigeration HVAC, Ounce of Hope, Cajun Table, Vermilionville, Soul Haus Kitchen, Chris Logan Media, and Sunday Soda Fountain – proving that when a community rallies around celebrating local food culture, amazing things happen. Subscribe now to join this delicious adventure and become part of the movement that's transforming Lafayette's food scene one bite at a time!
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