James Truck Center is an out-of-the-way truck stop just outside the receiving gates of the PCA mill. That said, virtually all of its business involves customers affiliated with the mill. I learned of James Truck Center while interacting with some mill employees myself and all of them recommended that I try the cheeseburgers there.
The road to James Truck Center is mainly used by trucks carrying raw materials into the mill, and small vehicles are uncommon. James Truck Center is also nondescript, and most people would miss it unless they are specifically looking for it. The place consists of a few structures and some fuel pumps. The pavement is mostly gravel.
Inside the store they sell various tools and supplies for truck drivers--many of these items are beyond my area of expertise. There are also some t-shirts for sale emblazoned with the James Truck Center logo. However, food is a common language across all vocations and I can easily figure out what the culinary offerings are at this place.
There are some pre-made convenience foods available under heat lamps, as well as Hunt Brothers Pizza. It seems that the burgers are made to order. Since the PCA employees recommended that I try the burgers, I ordered a bacon cheeseburger and fries. All items are a la carte and bottled or canned drinks are available in the cooler. I could not find and Pepsi products in the cooler so I presume they only carry Coca Cola products at James Truck Center.
Since the burgers are made to order, it took some time for it to be ready. Virtually all orders are to-go, but there are modest tables and chairs should anyone care to eat inside. When my order was ready, I decided to eat in the car, in light of the COVID-19 environment at the time of this writing.
The burger was hot and fresh, and had a large beef patty. The veggies are fresh, as well as the fries. The fries are of the crinkle-cut variety and is best consumed fast before they get cold.
Overall James Truck Center is a hidden gem that serves wonderful burgers. I would certainly come back the next time I am near the PCA mill...in fact, I already did! read more