Walch Store
Lincoln, TX
I've seen 'The Color of Money' more times than I can count. In many ways it's the most rewatchable Scorsese joint and anyone who knows Marty's resume should know this. I own a VINCE shirt and the first time I went to Chris's Billiards (the location of the Grady Seasons "dump" scene) was the week I turned 18. The bouncer scoffed at my ID but I got in nonetheless, free to look like a fool and suck down a pack in seconhand smoke.
But if there's one table in Texas that I can imagine appearing in a hyptohetical remake of the film, it has to be the one at the Walch Store. It's the most unique pool table I've stumbled upon to date.
Located in a gas station-slash-country store in Lincoln, this thing is ready for the big screen. I'm not sure exactly how much action it gets, but it's an amazing spot to potentially get hustled by a guy with a Balabushka and a two-page rap sheet. (Netflix, are you reading?)
According to its exterior signage, the Walch Store has been around since 1957. It also claims to be a deli, grocery, grill, and bar. (By my observations, only half of those things are true.) But if you love gas stations and local bars, sell the kids for cash because you're going to be spending all of it here.
Imagine the eclectic snacking you can pull off. You can get absolutely rocked on Bud Heavies, Swishers, sunflower seeds, Slim Jims, Monsters, and pizza-flavored Combos. The possibilities are endless. Sure, Spain has tapas but Texas has this absolutely bonkers gas station bar. Suck it, Spain.
Apparently, the kitchen here is pretty decent too, with locals complimenting the burgers, okra, fried pickles, and other country store fare. And there's WiFi in case you need to put in some work hours after losing too much money on pool games. What else do you need?
Great pool table, lots of snacks, unleaded gasoline, and cold beer. Hands down, one of the weirdest bars in Texas.
Online reviews:
"The wings were amazing but the smoke and alcoholics were a little annoying"
"This place is bussing bussing. Love you g mom and yaya."
"good food, good gasoline station"