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Typically you only hear positive stories about Buc-ee’s. While people usually love almost everything about this beaver-loving chain, that’s not always the case. One of their latest menu items has created quite a controversy amongst their loyal following.
The passionate fans of this growing chain are at odds with each other over this new menu item. Opponents fear it’s a sign Buc-ee’s is heading in the wrong direction.
What’s all the fuss? Let’s find out!
What Is Buc-ee’s?
Buc-ee’s, a popular chain of travel centers, started in Clute, Texas, in 1982. Texans and travelers passing through the Lone Star State grew to love these travel centers.
They began popping up all over the state, and in 2018 the first Buc-ee’s popped up outside of Texas. You can now find them in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.
For lack of a better description, Buc-ee’s is what you would get if a Love’s truck stop and a Cracker Barrel had a baby. It may sound odd, but it’s probably the perfect description. While they may have everything drivers need to get in and out quickly, many want to take their time.
The first thing many guests notice is the approximately 100 gas pumps and massive parking lots surrounding these stores. However, walking through the doors can feel overwhelming.
It has enough snacks, beverages, and merchandise to give you decision fatigue. You may want to watch the clock and your wallet, or you may spend more time and money than you had planned.
Why Is Buc-ee’s So Popular?
Regarding companies that treat their customers right, Buc-ee’s is near the top of the list. They do whatever they can to create the best possible customer experience. They don’t overlook a single step of the process.
If you’ve ever stopped at a truck stop or gas station to use the restroom, you know it can be a risky gamble. However, Buc-ee’s takes pride in its bathrooms and has even won awards for the cleanliness of its bathroom facilities.
Customers can have confidence that they won’t have to worry about answering nature’s call in a sketchy or dirty bathroom when they stop here.
For many travelers, the allure of Buc-ee’s was that it was a Texas-only establishment. Since they weren’t readily available, visiting a Buc-ee’s was a big deal for many travelers.
Snapping a picture with the bronzed beaver statue out front became a right of passage for many. The brand spread like wildfire over social media and lured many new customers.
What Did Buc-ee’s Do to Anger Customers?
Texas has a reputation for barbeque, and Buc-ee’s offers guests the opportunity to experience it. Their menu is full of brisket and barbeque options that attract attention.
However, the Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL now steals the show. But it’s not the taste or the quantity that bothers people; it’s the price.
On Feb. 17, Facebook user, Andrew Mast, posted his frustrations with Buc-ee’s online. His post in the group “Everything New Braunfels Texas” had him complaining about the sandwich’s $12.99 price tag.
The post quickly went south as fanboys jumped in to defend Buc-ee’s honor and opponents piled on the insults. We’ll never know whether Mast knew the can of worms he opened or if he even cared.
However, it was clear that many consumers didn’t like the price. With the costs of almost everything going up these days, they feel betrayed that their beloved Buc-ee’s is also piling it on.
What Is the Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL?
When you charge $12.99 for a gas station sandwich, you better back it up. The Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL is just shy of a pound of delicious chopped brisket.
The mouthwatering meat is served over a soft bun and wrapped in aluminum foil to wait for guests to put their hands on it.
Many in the argument failed to understand that the sandwich is twice the size of the original brisket sandwich. The original costs $8.49 instead nearly $13. Comparatively, the Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL is more bang for your buck than the original.
Other Items to Try at Buc-ee’s
If you’re anything like us, you may laugh at spending $13 on a gas station sandwich. But if you don’t mind, we won’t judge. We’d just remind you to grab some extra napkins. However, we’ve found a handful of other options worth trying at Buc-ee’s.
Let’s take a look!
Beaver Nuggets
One of the most popular snacks at Buc-ee’s is their Beaver Nuggets. These are small, sweet, caramel-flavored pieces of corn puffs. They resemble the taste of caramel corn but without the kernels. Some even feel they have a syrup-like taste and find them irresistible.
They’re a budget-friendly snack that travelers stock up on whenever they visit. For the money, finding a better road trip snack to bring along on your adventures is hard.
Be careful when opening them; you won’t want to stop eating them until you reach the bottom of the bag.
Read More: See what other menu items RVers Recommend to Try at Buc-ee’s!
Jerky
Another well-loved snack at Buc-ee’s is its jerky. They have one of the largest selections of jerky you’ll ever see. Aside from various flavors, consumers love comes from some of the highest-quality beef they can find. You’ll get a nearly perfect piece of tender and flavorful meat.
Some popular flavors are the original, peppered, teriyaki, and sweet and spicy. With so many flavors, you can find one you love. The hardest choice you’ll need to make is how much you want to purchase.
Fudge
If you love fudge, Buc-ee’s may feel like heaven. You can watch them make it in front of you, and you can even sample their delicious treats.
Some popular fudge flavors include chocolate, peanut butter, pecan, rocky road, and maple walnut. It sells the fudge by the pound but will cut it into bite-sized slices or pieces based on your needs.
If you want a gift for your friends, family, or your favorite travel bloggers, fudge is a great choice. It’ll satisfy even the sweetest of sweet tooths imaginable.
Kolaches
A kolache is a pastry that may have originated from Eastern Europe but became a beloved Texas tradition. It’s popular as a breakfast food or a quick snack to lift your spirits. These soft, sweet, and doughy pastries will do the trick if you need something to cheer you up.
As with most of the food at Buc-ee’s, the company makes its kolaches fresh and in-house daily. However, you better plan to get there early because they sell out quickly.
But if you do, you can choose from a traditional sausage and cheese to a bit more adventurous with jalapeno and cheese or even bacon and egg. They’re all delicious!
Breakfast Tacos
Another Buc-ee’s item we suggest you try is the breakfast tacos. These tacos became a beloved treat as Buc-ee’s makes them to order.
This way, when you receive your breakfast taco, it’s hot and just how you want it. It typically has eggs, cheese, bacon, sausage, and potatoes inside a soft flour or corn tortilla. However, you can customize it to perfection for your taste buds.
Not only are these delicious, but they’re also extremely affordable. What more could you ask for when grabbing a quick bite to eat? Just ensure you grab a coffee or drink to wash it down before hitting the road.
Keep in Mind: Next time you go camping, try one of these Easy Camping Taco Recipes!
Is the Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL Worth It?
The Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich is everything Texas represents. It’s a ton of beef that demands your attention and respect.
However, most people don’t enjoy paying $13 for a gas station sandwich with no fries or drink. You could go to many sit-down restaurants and get an entire meal for the same cost.
Unfortunately, the Big Buckin’ Brisket Sandwich XXL is another example of too much of a good thing. We, and likely your cardiologist, would encourage you to opt for the much more manageable original brisket sandwich.
However, the choice is yours. Which would you choose?
