For a unique deli dining experience, stop in for a tank of gas and a meal at the Whoa Nelly Deli (Hwys. 120 and 395, 760/647-1088, Apr.–Nov. daily 7 a.m.–9 p.m.) at the Tioga Gas Mart. You’ll get a full, hearty meal from the daily offering, be it ribs or meatloaf or something else. Sandwiches and drinks are also available for lighter noshing. Expect to wait in line for a while at the counter to order, then to wait to pick up your own food.

Seating, both indoor and out, tends to be limited during high-traffic mealtimes, and heaven help you if you get there in conjunction with a tour bus. But still, compared to the so-called food offered in most gas station mini-marts, you’ll find some great stuff at Whoa Nelly, and the rowdy cooks provide something of a show for the dinner crowd.

A great place to get a to-go breakfast or lunch is the Mono Market (51303 Hwy. 395, 760/647-1010, daily summer 7 a.m.–10 p.m., winter 7:30 a.m.–8 p.m.). An array of breakfast sandwiches and pastries are made fresh daily, as are the sandwiches, wraps, and messier napkin-requisite entrées you can carry out for lunch or dinner.