McALLEN, Texas – Mr. Fast, “an unlikely hybrid of
convenience store and sushi bar” is offering customers “a smorgasbord of
choices for those able to suspend judgment about buying gasoline and raw fish
in the same place,” reports The Monitor.
Owner Allen Jung told the newspaper that some have doubted
the location and the unique combination. However, he saw the location as prime
real estate, which has seen its fair share of c-stores moving in and out of the
space. Jung set out to keep customers coming back with a creative foodservice
concept combined with one-stop shopping.
“People say it’s a crazy idea, but people love it,” he said.
At Mr. Fast, customers can find breakfast tacos and sushi
side by side, which a selection of convenience store staples. The newspaper
writes that what likely makes Mr. Fast stand out is the $2.95 price tag for all
sushi dishes, including most custom orders. The bar is open until at least 10
pm and offers six different types of draft beer for $1 draft beer. Tacos and
nachos are also sold two for $1, and the store gives a free breakfast taco with
every gas purchase of $20 or more.
Jung added that he reduces his expenses when he buys his own
fresh vegetables wholesale in Mission three times a week, which cuts down on
delivery costs. He also does his own contracting or decorating. “My management
idea is: I work harder, my customer (is) more happy…That’s my concept. I work
24/7. That’s my hobby almost.”
Ulises Aguilar admits that the gas station/sushi concept
might sound strange, but he’s been a regular since the store opened its doors
in January. “I’ve tasted sushi from other places, and I just love this sushi
with the eel sauce,” Aguilar told the newspaper, adding, “If I’m going to get sushi
— I know it sounds kind of crazy to some people, but it’s real good.”
Originally from Seoul, Korea, Jung has lived in the Rio
Grande Valley for more than 15 years. He also owns the Kohnami sushi bar at
2005 W. Nolana and a fast food location that sells Chinese food and pizza. Mr.
Fast is his creation and his second location — the first one is in
California.
This summer, Jung plans to expand the menu,
suggesting that he may offer a list of customized sushi rolls by customer name.
He told the newspaper that he strives to meet customer demand by bringing new
options.