Convenience, Gas and Sushi

NACS Online
June 3, 2013

Retailers like Mr. Fast in Texas continue to redefine and innovate convenience store foodservice.

McALLEN, Texas – Mr. Fast, “an unlikely hybrid of convenience store and sushi bar” is offering customers “a smorgasbord of choices for those able to suspend judgment about buying gasoline and raw fish in the same place,” reports The Monitor.​

Owner Allen Jung told the newspaper that some have doubted the location and the unique combination. However, he saw the location as prime real estate, which has seen its fair share of c-stores moving in and out of the space. Jung set out to keep customers coming back with a creative foodservice concept combined with one-stop shopping.

“People say it’s a crazy idea, but people love it,” he said.

At Mr. Fast, customers can find breakfast tacos and sushi side by side, which a selection of convenience store staples. The newspaper writes that what likely makes Mr. Fast stand out is the $2.95 price tag for all sushi dishes, including most custom orders. The bar is open until at least 10 pm and offers six different types of draft beer for $1 draft beer. Tacos and nachos are also sold two for $1, and the store gives a free breakfast taco with every gas purchase of $20 or more.

Jung added that he reduces his expenses when he buys his own fresh vegetables wholesale in Mission three times a week, which cuts down on delivery costs. He also does his own contracting or decorating. “My management idea is: I work harder, my customer (is) more happy…That’s my concept. I work 24/7. That’s my hobby almost.”

Ulises Aguilar admits that the gas station/sushi concept might sound strange, but he’s been a regular since the store opened its doors in January. “I’ve tasted sushi from other places, and I just love this sushi with the eel sauce,” Aguilar told the newspaper, adding, “If I’m going to get sushi — I know it sounds kind of crazy to some people, but it’s real good.”

Originally from Seoul, Korea, Jung has lived in the Rio Grande Valley for more than 15 years. He also owns the Kohnami sushi bar at 2005 W. Nolana and a fast food location that sells Chinese food and pizza. Mr. Fast is his creation and his second location — the first one is in California.

This summer, Jung plans to expand the menu, suggesting that he may offer a list of customized sushi rolls by customer name. He told the newspaper that he strives to meet customer demand by bringing new options.