On our way back from Houston a few weeks ago, we had to make a stop at one of our favorite places on I45 - Woody's Smokehouse in Centerville (at Exit 164).  Each time we are in that area, we make it a point to visit and we try to always have a cooler in the car to bring back plenty of their unbelievable smoked meats.

Woody's is located in a Shell gas station. The first time we stumbled upon it, I think it actually WAS to get gas...since then, it's to treat ourselves.

When you go inside the large building, you see the usual gas station convenience store 'stuff', then notice all the Woody's jarred goodies. They have TONS! Any kind of jams, jellies, preserves, salsas, sauces & veggies you can think of line the shelves.

Take a turn to the left and you'll see the refrigerated cases with the smoked deli meats. They make a mean deli sandwich but we always opt for the BBQ. When we were 'rookies', we floundered the first time. The procedure is to get in line at the counter and when it's your turn, tell the server what meats you'd like. It's all by the pound. Just wait until you lay your eyes upon the warming chests full of beef briskets, ribs, pork chops, chickens & sausages. It is heaven & the smells are incredible.

If you should want a sliced or chopped brisket sandwich, they have those already prepared at the end of the line. Otherwise, order yourself a few ribs, some pork chops, chicken, just whatever tickles your fancy and move on down the line to the beans and fixin's that come with your dining experience. Tea is free with a meal too!

Then head to the long picnic tables set upside, plop yourself down and dig in! There are always plenty of loaves of bread and rolls of paper towels on each table.

Every time we've gone to Woody's, there's been a healthy crowd. Last time, the place was jam packed! You could spend a couple of hours just looking at their jarred products. And they all look GOOD!

Be sure to get something to take home- you'll be so glad you did.

Woody's Smokehouse, I-45 and Highway 7 West, Exit 164 in Centerville, Texas 75833.

Woody's Deli Meat Case

Willie Nelson & Norah Jones