“If somebody has their eyes open, they see something special developing in Pittsboro.” - Steven Kanter

I have passed the 2-story building on 56 Sanford Road countless times during my evening 5-mile runs. Recently, though, that construction space has turned into a bustling hub of family dinners, drinks over a sports broadcast, and traditional Irish music. Doherty's Irish Pub had finally opened in Pittsboro. As I took my place at the upstairs bar – a unique aspect to downtown Pittsboro dining – I ordered myself a drink and perused the menu like any other place. What happened next, however, surprised me to such a degree that it prompted the writing of this article. Let’s get into it!

The new Doherty's location on Sanford Rd. nestled next to The Mod and Havoc Brewing. The balcony grants patrons a lovely view of downtown Pittsboro.

During my sixth or seventh visit to the restaurant in just a couple of weeks, the staff greeted me by name - I had been inducted as a regular. I wanted two things that day: another incredible meal paired with my usual Guinness, and the story behind the establishment. Maybe it’s our primal genetic memories of sharing stories around the fire, but I didn’t just want to read a paragraph about Doherty’s online – I wanted to hear its story in person, boots on ground, one gentleman to another. I found Steven Kanter, the General Manager and one of the partners of the Pub, and he shared the rich history and vision behind their establishment, which began in the state’s capital of Raleigh.

In the mid-90s, Raleigh welcomed its first Irish pub, which quickly became a local favorite. As Steven recalls, it was a time of simplicity and genuine camaraderie. The original pub set the stage for what would eventually become a significant name in the local area - Doherty’s. After several transitions and ownership changes, Stephen, along with his partners, seized an opportunity to reinvent the pub experience, emphasizing a return to quality and community engagement.

By 2012, Daugherty's had opened its doors in Cary, marking a new beginning for the team. The pub was named after Michael Doherty, one of the original partners, linking traditional roots with the new venture. The expansion didn't stop in Cary; Doherty’s saw another opportunity in Apex, where they transformed a former venue into a vibrant Irish pub, bringing with it the charm and hospitality of their original location. In 2017, Steven stepped up as the General Manager in Apex, continuing to build on the foundation of community and quality that Doherty’s is known for.

2019 brought another innovative venture with the launch of The Paddy Wagon, a food truck specializing in fish and chips. This addition allowed Daugherty's to share their culinary creations beyond the pub walls, supplying venues with the comfort of classic Irish fare.

The latest chapter in the Doherty’s story takes place right here in Pittsboro where the team opened their third stationary pub. Steven sees great potential here, noting the town's growth and the opportunity to be part of a growing community.

"The growth curve that's underway, that's going to get even steeper over the next few years. It's certainly attractive to us."

He believes that being proactive in engaging with the town's transformation is key to creating a lasting impact. In fact, many of Pittsboro’s business owners are working closely with new developers to retain the old town feel that we hold dear.

Doherty’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish served. With 95% of their menu made from scratch, including sauces and dressings, and a focus on fresh ingredients, they ensure that each meal is not only satisfying but also a tribute to authentic Irish cooking. This dedication to food quality significantly overshadows their alcohol sales, with food making up 70% of their overall revenue, a testament to their culinary focus. It is the opinion of the author that with plenty of great breweries in the district, downtown Pittsboro needed a new high-quality dining option.

"We make a commitment to doing everything from scratch, and hopefully the end result speaks for us all."

I looked down at my plate of boneless wings, which were more like enormous tender bird medallions from Grandma’s magic kitchen, and replied,

“Steven, I cannot adequately describe the emotional experience this meal takes me on, but suffice it to say, the food speaks for itself. Well done, sir!”

Talking with Steven, sitting in the same spot I did during my first visit, I recalled that initial experience. The surprise that had me completely sold on the place was an aggregation of meaningful details that crafted such an elevated dining experience: the clean, organized, and warm environment instantly put me at ease. The pour of Guinness, mathematically timed to the second, was utterly prime. My meal, a batch of fish and chips, blew my mind - I could only compare it to something I’d have freshly caught on a New England beach somewhere. I marveled at the quality, joined by strangers at the bar who quickly became friends. The Spring air flowing through the open balcony, the glimmer of the sunset-kissed clocktower, the smiles of the staff happy to attend, all of this branded Doherty’s as a new favorite destination to frequent time and again.

Looking ahead, Doherty’s is preparing for a special Mother's Day event, adapting their celebration to fit the unique layout of their newest location. These thoughtful adjustments and commitments to quality have earned Doherty’s a reputation as one of the best restaurants in the area.

As Stephen succinctly puts it, the experience and lessons learned over the years have shaped Doherty’s into what it is today—a place of warmth, tradition, and excellent Irish fare. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a visit to Doherty’s offers a top-tier experience that is sure to be memorable in every way.

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Visit Doherty's Website

Read more about Doherty's or browse their menu on their website here: https://www.dohertysirishpubnc.com