Baldwin County’s best fried chicken just might be hiding in plain sight on U.S. 98

My ongoing pursuit of the best gas station eats has led me down countless roads and into corners of the map I never knew existed. It has been a true culinary adventure, but my latest discovery was hiding in plain sight—a spot I had passed a thousand times while focused on reaching a different destination.

A Baldwin County Hidden Gem

Following a tip from a friend and regular patron, I finally pulled into the Fastime gas station at 2305 U.S. 98 in Daphne. It turns out that while many Eastern Shore locals have long known about this secret, I was perhaps the last to realize this fuel stop serves some of the most affordable and high-quality fried chicken in the area.

Sitting directly across from Daphne Elementary School, this bustling station is a popular spot for locals. My friend, who lives just around the corner, often makes it part of his Sunday ritual to pick up chicken for himself and his dog, choosing to enjoy the meal in the parking lot under the shade of a large tree.

More Than Just Fuel

Inside, you will find a traditional gas station layout anchored by a long, glass-enclosed case overflowing with hot fried chicken, livers, gizzards, tenders, and sides like mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and potato logs. The menu even features pork chops, fried fish, and an intriguing serving of black beans and rice. Unlike many other grab-and-go spots, Fastime offers a spacious interior for those who prefer to dine inside.

Andy Patel, who assists at the counter, notes that while breakfast is a hit, the lunch rush is the real draw. The crowd-favorite lunch special features two pieces of chicken, two sides, a drink, and a biscuit for $12. Beyond the signature fried chicken, the demand for their livers and gizzards is consistently high.

The Taste Test

I followed a recommendation to order a chicken sandwich "all the way." For just under $7, I received a hearty, expertly assembled meal. The sandwich featured a massive slab of crispy white meat chicken that extended past the bun, topped with fresh lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, pickles, and onion slices on a brioche-style bun.

The chicken itself is the clear standout—fresh from the fryer, it features a thick, crunchy coating and a well-seasoned profile with a welcome spicy kick. It was so substantial that I ended up taking half home for my wife, who agreed it was a stellar sandwich.

On a separate morning visit, I also tested the chicken biscuit, which was equally impressive. It was a perfectly filling start to the day, featuring a large chicken tender on a fluffy biscuit with a slice of cheese. My experience at this U.S. 98 stop serves as a reminder: sometimes, you just need to pull over and smell the frying chicken.