Ever wondered what it takes to turn a love for pizza into a thriving business? Meet David Whaley, the spirited owner of 3 Roosters Brick Oven Pizza and Open Pit Chicken. From humble beginnings to mastering the craft of pizza-making, David’s journey is as inspiring as the delicious pizzas he creates.
David’s passion for cooking began early on, but it was his time working in an Italian restaurant that truly ignited his love for pizza-making. “I always enjoyed cooking, especially pizza making. I learned a lot there and have also learned through trial and error the type of crust and sauce I like to make,” David shares. At 50 years old, he took a leap of faith and started his own business, making pizza out of his food trailer. His dedication and pride in his work shine through in every slice, as he says, “Seeing others enjoy my pizza makes it all worthwhile.”
David’s drive to perfect his craft came from watching pizza chefs on television and social media. He noticed a gap in the market for high-quality, fresh pizzas and decided to fill it. “After trying many pizza restaurants in my area, I felt that pizza could be better if the dough and ingredients were fresh and good quality. I really had a desire to give that experience to others,” he explains.
The concept of a wood-fired oven and a mobile pizza trailer appealed to David for several reasons. It offered a lower cost compared to a traditional store, the flexibility to travel to different events, and the ability to manage his schedule alongside his full-time job. This unique business model allowed him to pursue his passion before fully retiring from his other career.
David’s business has evolved over the years. “I have been in business since 2012 when I began cooking open-pit chicken. Then in 2018, I started making pizzas with an old wood-fired oven I bought from a closed restaurant in Washington, DC. In 2023, I bought my brand new Breadstone oven and pizza trailer,” he recounts.
His favorite part of being a business owner? The freedom to set his own schedule and choose the jobs he wants to take. And nothing beats the joy of hearing customers rave about his pizzas. “I am most inspired when someone tells me ‘that’s the best pizza I have ever had!’” David says. Watching his youngest son, Seth, learn the craft and make pizzas is another source of pride and inspiration for him.
When it comes to pizza, David believes less is more. “My favorite pizza to make is the simplest, like one ingredient pizzas because you can taste the fresh tomatoes in the sauce and the crust that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I feel that too many toppings take away from that,” he shares.
While David’s business is mobile, he does have a stationary location open in the evenings on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1449 Anderson Highway in Cumberland, VA. Located in Central Virginia, an hour from Richmond and Charlottesville, it’s a must-visit for pizza lovers.
David Whaley’s story is a testament to following your passion, overcoming challenges, and the joy that comes from sharing something you love with others. So, next time you’re in Central Virginia, make sure to grab a slice from 3 Roosters Brick Oven Pizza – you won’t be disappointed!
