New Ash Grove gas station the Hot Spot for barbecue

City’s newest commercial addition to open Dec. 15; offerings aplenty at mega station
 
The city of Ash Grove will soon have a new restaurant and convenience store under one roof with the city’s new Hot Spot opening on Dec. 15.
The gas station, which already has a location in Mt. Vernon, plans to offer all of the amenities of a convenience store but with the addition of barbecue dishes made fresh each day, according to owner Chase Wilmoth.
“We’ll offer everything you expect from a good convenience store—fuel, snacks, groceries, cold drinks and coffee,” said Wilmoth. “But what really sets us apart is our barbecue. Our ribs, baked beans, pulled pork, and smoked brisket are just some of our signature items, and we’ll have them fresh for the community each day. We’re also offering catering for local events, schools, businesses and family gatherings.”

Barbecue galore
Those barbecue items are what set the store ahead of the competition, though, according to Wilmoth, the quality of which one would not expect to find in a gas station. But more than this, Wilmoth is excited to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the city.
“We’re committed to hiring local folks, supporting Ash Grove events, and giving the town a place that’s clean, reliable and friendly,” said Wilmoth. “Our goal is to be a spot people are proud to have in their community.”The gas station was originally the point of some controversy when it was announced that the property on which the gas station now sits would be rezoned. Several citizens appeared at a city council meeting to voice concerns, with the night ending in a 4-0 vote to rezone the property. The Hot Spot moved along as planned and now expects to open their doors on Monday, Dec. 15.

Ash Grove an ideal location for station
Wilmoth said Ash Grove was a great place for a Hot Spot. There are already many other Hot Spot locations throughout the state with homes in Rogersville, Mt. Vernon and Stockton among others but Ash Grove seemed the natural choice for expansion.
“Ash Grove is a special community with great people, and it’s a town that supports its businesses,” said Wilmoth. “We saw a need for a modern store with fresh food, friendly service and a place folks can count on whether they’re headed to work, school, lake, or just passing through. We wanted to invest in a town with pride, and Ash Grove has that.”
The multi-million dollar project, located on Highway 160, is in the final stages before opening and will hold a grand opening event with food specials, giveaways, and a chance to try the store’s signature barbecue. With the opening coming up quickly, Wilmoth is excited to share the product of much effort.
“It feels great. We’re excited, proud, and ready to get the doors open,” said Wilmoth. “A lot of work has gone into making this store something the community can enjoy, and we can’t wait to serve Ash Grove. It means a lot to finally be this close.”