For horror movie buffs, particularly fans of the 1974 cult classic The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, a unique destination combines Texas barbecue with a slice of cinematic history.
Located in Bastrop, Texas, just a 40-minute drive from Austin, The Gas Station isn’t just a pitstop for food—it’s a tribute to one of the most iconic horror films ever made.
In The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, the infamous gas station is a seemingly innocent rest stop for a group of road-tripping teenagers.
The building’s eerie presence, complete with an old-fashioned soda machine and abandoned gas pumps, is a backdrop to the terror that unfolds. Today, that building still stands, offering a completely different yet equally memorable experience—delicious Texas barbecue with a side of horror history.
A Fan’s Dream Becomes Reality
The Gas Station has been around since the 1960s, but it wasn’t until 2016 that it transformed into the horror-themed barbecue joint it is today. Roy Rose, a longtime fan of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, purchased and restored the property to its former movie glory.
He partnered with Ari Lehman, the actor who portrayed Jason Voorhees in the original Friday the 13th, to create a space where fans could immerse themselves in the film’s chilling atmosphere while enjoying authentic Texas cuisine.
Much like other themed restaurants around the country (like the J.R.R. Tolkien-inspired café), The Gas Station celebrates its horror roots with props, memorabilia, and a nostalgic nod to the gruesome world of Leatherface and his terrifying family.
Dining Among the Dead
Walking up to The Gas Station, you’ll immediately recognize the familiar facade made famous in the film. The building’s exterior has been faithfully preserved, and inside, you’ll find walls adorned with memorabilia, posters, and spooky souvenirs from the Texas Chain Saw Massacre universe.
Whether you’re a film fan or just looking for a unique dining experience, the atmosphere promises to be unlike any other.
For horror enthusiasts, The Gas Station is a destination as legendary as the haunted hotels and creepy cabins that define classic horror cinema. It’s a place where the lines between reality and movie magic blur, giving visitors a chance to eat, shop, and even stay the night in a place that feels pulled right from a nightmare.
Texas Barbecue Meets Movie Magic
Of course, only a trip to The Gas Station would be complete with sampling their signature Texas barbecue. The restaurant offers local favorites like slow-smoked brisket, juicy ribs, spicy chili, creamy coleslaw, and hearty potato salad.
For those craving something different, they also serve burgers, nachos, and other comfort foods.
And remember to save room for dessert. The Gas Station’s sweet offerings include Southern staples like pecan and pumpkin pie, adding a comforting finish to your meal.
With food this good, it’s easy to forget the eerie history surrounding you—until you look up and see a life-sized Leatherface mannequin staring back at you.
A Shop for Horror Fans
If you want to take a piece of Texas Chain Saw history home, The Gas Station’s on-site store covers you. You’ll find various merchandise, from T-shirts featuring classic movie quotes to jewelry with ghoulish designs.
They even offer wood slabs from the original structure, a perfect keepsake for die-hard fans.
The most exciting items in the shop are the autographed photos of the Texas Chain Saw Massacre cast members. For fans, these signed photos directly connect to the movie stars, allowing them to own a piece of cinema history.
If you can’t visit in person, the gas station also has an online store where you can purchase many items and have them shipped directly to your home.
Stay the Night, If You Dare
For the truly adventurous (or those who can’t get enough of the Texas Chain Saw vibe), The Gas Station offers cabins where you can spend the night. These aren’t your typical cozy cabins, though.
The interiors are drenched in deep crimson, a nod to the blood-soaked scenes of the film. It’s an immersive experience for those brave enough to stay.
Roy Rose went the extra mile to recreate the movie’s atmosphere. The parking lot even includes replicas of the infamous van from the film and the getaway pickup truck, perfect for photo ops. Spending the night in these cabins isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s the ultimate experience for horror fans.
A Destination for Horror Enthusiasts and Food Lovers Alike
While The Gas Station is undeniably a must-visit for fans of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, it also serves as an excellent stop for anyone looking to enjoy classic Texas barbecue in a unique setting. The combination of delicious food, horror memorabilia, and a rich cinematic history makes this restaurant one of a kind.
Whether passing through Bastrop on a road trip or making a pilgrimage as a devoted fan, The Gas Station promises an unforgettable experience.
With its menu of mouth-watering barbecue, chilling decor, and connection to one of horror’s most beloved films, this Texas eatery offers more than just a meal—it provides a slice of horror history that you can sink your teeth into.
So, detour to The Gas Station next time you’re in the Austin area. Come for the food, stay for the horror, and leave with a memory that’s as haunting as delicious.
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