“We have a true family atmosphere across the board,” explained Doherty, who emigrated from Ireland to the United States 27 years ago. At that time, Doherty was 21 years old and dreamed of opening a traditional Irish pub where people could enjoy a kindhearted, comfortable atmosphere. He helped birth Tir Na Nog Irish Pub in downtown Raleigh and then opened Connolly’s Irish Pub in Cary, which ultimately became Doherty’s.