New stand owner discusses change, encourages unity
Robbinsville – Aaron Bradley had no idea what he was getting into when he spotted something on the side of the road and turned his vehicle around some eight years ago.
"God works in different ways," Bradley said. "He's got a path for everybody."
Bradley was traveling with his family on U.S. 129 North that fateful Saturday, bound for a day on Lake Santeetlah. While passing by Wehrloom Honey, he noticed a small trailer stationed next to the business. What came to be known as "T Dubbs" was selling its trademark barbecue for passersby.
"We got the brisket sandwich; I've been hooked ever since," Bradley said.
Bradley learned how to cook at an early age and while serving in the U.S. Navy, began crafting barbecue recipes of his own before being "coached" by Williams.
"He's really trained me for this over the last seven years," said Bradley.
As the two developed a friendship, T Dubbs later moved to 448 Rodney Orr Bypass and became renowned as a lunch destination; open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
While operating the stand, Williams bravely fought recurring bouts of cancer and started looking to sell during the winter. Bradley seemed like the natural successor.
"A couple of people were interested, but they weren't going to keep this place," Bradley said. "When he told me that, I looked at my wife (Nicole) and said, 'This is it. This is an opportunity.'
"Tracy built an awesome machine, and we got it because we didn't want somebody to get it and change it. The goal is to maintain and carry on what he has built."
Keys officially changed hands in February and even though the Bradley's have renamed the spot "The Dragon Pit," customers approaching the stand from the right can still see "T Dubbs" emblazoned on the side of the building.
The menu remains relatively unaltered and daily specials have returned. The Dragon Pit recently set up shop at the Flame Azalea Festival, and on June 19 opened for unique evening hours alongside food truck newcomer Mountain View Creamery.
Bradley indicated that plans for expansion are in the works – and with mobile restaurants becoming popular in Robbinsville, would even welcome something akin to what neighboring Andrews hosts monthly, as part of its "Food Truck Friday."
"We are looking to obtain 'The Hub' property," Bradley said. "We want to move this, and have some cornhole boards, live music and TVs in the pavilion out there. We'll maintain our normal hours, but add some evening hours Friday and Saturday nights.
"I think something like a 'Food Truck Friday' would do great. We could set up some power and have them join us when we move. We could even bring in something different that we don't have here. We're a small place. I'd like for all of us to work together. There's enough to go around."