​Whether it’s a Friday night date, a Saturday game-day lunch, or a Sunday brunch, the talk around Lumberton is kudos for The Tree Restaurant Bar & Grill. ​Owners Martin and Cindi Riley, along with son-in-law TJ, admit they have been overwhelmed with local support. ​They welcomed the Lumberton Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Oct. 3, for an open house and ribbon cutting. ​“We’ve had an unbelievable reception in Lumberton,” Martin said. ​The Riley’s are experienced business owners having operated The Tree in Woodville for 20 years before making a move to Lumberton. ​“The one thing we bring to the business is US,” Martin said. “We are here five days a week, 14 hours a day, 70 hours a week.” ​He says it’s their passion for serving the dining public that makes the restaurant work. ​Open for a couple of months; The Tree is located at 434 NLHS Drive, Suite 600, in Lumberton.​ ​“The first six weeks were so busy; it flew by,” TJ said. ​If the online comments are any judge, The Tree merits five-star reviews. ​Having a soft opening gave them time to work out the kinks; he said, “We have smoothed out the process a lot.” ​Just in time for the holiday season. Cindi says holiday parties can be accommodated by The Tree with a private dining room for celebrations. ​“People should know we have room for Christmas parties and catering, and they should start scheduling now,” she said. ​She praises the community support, saying, “We appreciate the warmth and welcome we have received.” ​Chamber members raved over the dinner-plate-size cinnamon rolls prepared by Executive Chef Lauren Victoria Neville on Thursday. ​If that’s a regular day offering, imagine what a special occasion at The Tree Restaurant Bar & Grill looks like.