I might have been raised in Virginia, but I was born in Philadelphia, and that fact has afforded me some pretty incredible privileges. Cheesesteaks, a rich knowledge of American history, and Wawa. Yes, Wawa. For those who don't know, Wawa is a chain of convenience stores and gas stations located primarily in Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs. If you have never been there, find an excuse to go to your nearest location; it will change your life. I would franchise them throughout the United States if I had it my way. Here are just some of Wawa's incredible qualities.
The sandwiches
Their sandwiches are as good as a high-grade, professional cheesesteak from Philadelphia, at a convenience store price, which in and of itself is pretty amazing. They are made to order, and Wawa has an insane selection. It might take you months to try all the different combinations. To make matters more tempting, they also have quesadillas. If I lived up there, I might weigh a little more.
The layout
Unlike a lot of places, their layout is circular, and as a result you just want to buy more. it's open and interesting and it makes you want to examine the item in your peripheral vision more clearly. It feels almost like a miniature grocery store. If you go in wanting to buy a couple things, you will inevitable leave with a dozen items. All of which you will eat.
The coffee
Now, if anyone knows anything about me, it's that I am Team Starbucks through and through. However, if I lived closer to a Wawa, that might not be the case at all. Their coffee isn't just good, it's amazing. And it's affordable. I'd take it over Starbucks just about any day.
The employees
Now there very well might be a cranky and unpleasant Wawa employee out there, but I have yet to encounter one in the near decade and a half we have travelled to visit my extended family. The people there are friendly, funny, and extremely professional. Maybe because they know as well as we do that Wawa is the best.
The name
I challenge you to say it ten times fast. It will be as fun to say the tenth time as it was the first. Perfect name for a perfect place, and not just as far as convenience stores go. Maybe I'm too young to be staunchly team Wawa, but years of good food have persuaded me. It's seriously great.
