On the surface, the Rockingham Petroleum Station on Rt. 259 in Broadway might appear like just an amazing rural gas station. But step inside, and you’ll discover a full-service kitchen redefining what food on the road can be.
This is no ordinary convenience store deli. Managed by a team passionate about food and hospitality, the kitchen offers a wide range of meals that go far beyond the stereotypical fried chicken and prepackaged snacks.
More Than Just a Pit Stop
What sets this kitchen apart is its commitment to fresh, homemade meals and variety. The Specials includes lasagna, barbecue pork, Salisbury steak, and ham pot pie, alongside scratch-made soups, subs, and salads. “Lasagna has been one of our biggest hits,” says the kitchen team. Regulars often ask when it will be available again, making it a staple on the rotating menu of specials.
In addition to hearty entrées, the kitchen also serves breakfast, featuring made-to-order omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick meal or looking for a relaxed sit-down experience, the dining area offers a comfortable space to enjoy a fresh, homemade meal.
Farm-Fresh Flavors in a Rural Setting
Located in the heart of Broadway’s rural community, the kitchen caters to locals and travelers alike. With a focus on fresh, daily-prepared foods, more than half of the items sold are made in-house. “Anything in a clear container with our handwriting is our product,” the team explains. From garden salads to the Lunch and Dinner specials made onsite, the emphasis is on quality and flavor.
Rockingham Petroleum has a commitment to being customer-focused. This extends to both who they sell to and buy from. Although “Champs Chicken” is a brand offered in other convenience store settings at this location the Coop uses only locally grown and processed bone in chicken from Pilgrims for their fried chicken! And other locally made products such as Showalter’s Cidar, pickled peppers from J & B’s and other local products.
Affordable and Accessible
One of the most striking features of the kitchen is its affordability. Nearly all meals are priced under $10, making it accessible for families and travelers on a budget. Popular dinner platters, like barbecue pork or lasagna, are typically priced at $9.99 or less. “We keep it very fair,” the team notes, reflecting their goal of offering high-quality food at reasonable prices.
Catering
The kitchen at Rockingham Petroleum Station also offers catering services, bringing their homemade flavors to events of any size. From office lunches for a small team to larger gatherings with dozens of guests, the kitchen provides customizable menus featuring favorites like fried chicken, lasagna, and barbecue platters. Customers can work directly with the team to create the perfect spread, with food prepared fresh on-site and delivered ready to serve. It’s yet another way this small-town gem is elevating dining options in the area.
Not Just Gas Station Food
What truly makes this kitchen a standout is its mission to change perceptions. While it operates within a gas station, it’s striving to become a destination in its own right. Customers regularly comment on the unexpected quality and variety, comparing the kitchen more to a local café or diner than a roadside stop.
The kitchen’s hours, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., allow them to serve meals for every part of the day. With signature dishes like ham dumplings, brown sugar pork chops, and lasagna, they’ve created a menu that defies expectations.
A Growing Legacy
As the kitchen continues to evolve, it’s clear this operation is more than just a business. It’s a hub for the community, a place where travelers can pause and enjoy something truly special. The team is also exploring catering opportunities to extend their reach beyond the station’s walls.
With plans to name the kitchen soon—options include The Rustic Plate, The Bird’s Nest, Farmer’s Choice, and The Roco Grill—it’s clear this is just the beginning for this innovative roadside gem.
So, the next time you’re hungry and driving through Broadway, consider taking a detour from the ordinary. At the Rockingham Petroleum Station, you’ll find a kitchen that’s anything but typical.
