Obama puts 12 Bones in the spotlight

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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As if 12 Bones needed the extra publicity.

Long before Barack Obama showed up, 12 Bones, the barbecue joint down in the River Arts District, was already the most popular restaurant in Asheville.  It’s recipe for blueberry ribs had already won national acclaim last year in a contest by ABC’s Good Morning America, which asked nominate their favorite restaurants and their signature dishes.

12 Bones recently opened its second Asheville location down on Sweeten Creek Road, but it’s the first location on River Road that holds the magic. People starting lining up about 11 a.m. down there, and the line often snakes around the building. Obama had apparently picked up on the on-going buzz. 

And how cool is it that he just showed up and put in an order? Loyal Ashvegas reader Chall said he was just about ready to order when Obama showed up. Chall told Barack he could move in front. Barack said no, no problem. Chall insisted. That’s Chall, standing off to the right.

Another Ashvegas supporter and former Citizen-Times colleague, Angie Newsome, was also at the restaurant with her husband Pat. Angie, an excellent photographer, shot this awesome photo with her camera phone. Here’s her flickr link.

Angie said the best part of Obama’s visit was when, right after he ordered, he looked around and asked for five bucks. Guess he needed a little extra cash.

Anyway, quite a fun little moment for us here in Asheville. Hopefully the good food will bolster him for his debate tonight.