Conversation with Tim Holtsclaw, ScrubOaks owner...

Where were the first little seeds of ScrubOaks sown?

I could come with a really great story about how my son-in-law Steve Marshburn and I did years of market research, discovered our niche in the North Fayetteville market and how we then went about fulfilling a need for a really great steak house in this market.  I could tell you how we researched the finest culinary schools and discovered a young, unknown, and energetic chef . . . deciding to give him his chance while we were taking ours.  I could tell you about the years of working in kitchens and serving food that Steve and I both put in.  Yes, I could tell you all of that and it would be a great story...but just a great story and not a bit of truth!

Fact is, Steve and I spent many an evening by my grill talking about our dream restaurant.  The only problem with the dream was that Steve and I both have businesses that require our fulltime attention and, unless we could find the perfect location and a great staff, the dream would just be grill talk.

Then, we found a great deal on some restaurant equipment and made a low-ball bid.  They called our bluff. The location was terrific . . . right on the north side of Fayetteville which is home for our families. And the lease worked. In three days time, we were in the restaurant business.

So, what nurtured those seeds to sprout?

Two things.

As a graduate of Methodist University, I knew that the support of the University would go a long way in assuring the success of ScrubOaks. We had a great working relationship with Methodist that provided and continues to provide staff and customers for the restaurant.

Any twists as this seedling came out of the ground?

As we have gone through the process of educating ourselves about the restaurant business, we have found that our lack of experience seems to be a plus.  We don't do things like most people getting in the industry.  We have planned and designed this opening of ScrubOaks just like we run a major event, something we have done successfully for twenty years.

All along, we have said we will take no shortcuts and now, as we open, we still haven't. The food is fresh and simply delicious. The bar is well-stocked and welcoming. The wine selection is creative.  From the extra kitchen equipment to stocking the bar to the 8 TV's in the place and mostly, to the quality people we have hired, we still haven't taken a shortcut! 

When you walk into ScrubOaks, you're not just walking into another restaurant.  You are walking into our dream.  When you walk out, we hope it has become your dream destination for a great meal, great drinks and a great time with your friends!  Come on down, grab a bite and drink and make sure you stop by to say "Hi" to us!

Watch Us Grow

to be continued...