What Became of Grand Rapids Gulf Gas Station on Wealthy?

If you have been around Grand Rapids for a bit of time, 1950s on, then you probably remember Gulf Oil. GULF gas stations were prominent all around the area, including the Wealthy Theatre district.

This gas station on Wealthy, known as "Slocum's Gulf Service Station," was there for quite awhile. But, as time marches on, and Gulf merged with Standard Oil in the mid 80s, those stations disappeared, and were left vacant. After all, Standard Oil didn't need more gas stations because Standard was also everywhere. Many were torn down for other buildings, parking lots, whatever.

Well, the wealthy location sat vacant for a bit, but was not torn down and eventually became the Wealthy Street Station Deli & Grill.

It was a diner that served a mix of American, Mexican and Polish food. The cool thing was, they kept the 1950s gas station look, but they closed in 2015.

Is that all there is? Not at all, because the old "Slocum's Gulf Service Station," the former Wealthy Street Station Deli & Grille has become The HANCOCK, one of Grand Rapids most popular restaurants.

They have kept the 1950s gas station look, very cool, and added extra space inside and outside for diners, that is when there isn't a blizzard!

Of course, they are known for their chicken, but their menu us varied, but limited. The chicken is killer, but they also offer a great smash burger, fish, some salads and some yummy sides, their famous crinkle fries, pimento mac & cheese, bread & butter pickles, lots of sharables, and more.

And, they serve alcohol. From reviews, these are delicious as well. One reviewer said, "we came for a drink and stayed for the chicken."