In this episode of Sunday Afternoon Smokes, I sit down with Matt Bradford, co-owner and operator of Matty’s Pattys in Anderson, South Carolina, for a laid-back but thoughtful conversation about cigars, food, and the realities of building a small business.
We start, as always, with cigars — talking about what Matt’s been smoking lately, how he got into the hobby, and how cigars have become a way to slow down and reset. From there, the conversation naturally shifts into Matt’s entrepreneurial journey, including the leap from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar restaurant and what it really takes to make that transition work.
We go deep on what makes a great burger: the grind, fat ratios, buns, toppings, and the philosophy behind the menu at Matty’s Pattys. Along the way, we talk lunch and breakfast offerings, hot dogs, fries, and eventually tumble headfirst into a surprisingly serious debate — is a hot dog a sandwich? (and if so… is a taco one too?)
The episode also touches on small business ownership, lessons learned along the way, and advice for anyone considering starting something of their own. It’s a relaxed, fun conversation with plenty of laughs, honest insight, and a genuine love for good food done right.
Light a cigar, grab a burger, and enjoy the conversation.
