Doherty's Irish Pub & Restaurant — Restaurant in Cary

I USED to love Doherty's....Not anymore! We went often and I've taken many out of town guests there and recommended it to friends. However, after my experience today I don't think we'll be going back.

We met up with some friends there for Saint Patrick's day brunch. Due to the holiday, they had time limits on the tables. Our party was there early enough that there was no line and there were several empty tables. Beyond being told and reminded multiple times throughout the meal that they had 1 hour time limits on tables, I had the worst server experience I think I've ever had.

Upon ordering, I informed the waiter that I had a dairy allergy (this is new for me), and asked him if I could get the full breakfast (eggs, bacon, etc...). He proceeded to tell me that there was butter in the eggs. I asked if they just cracked fresh eggs thinking I could just have some cooked over-easy, no problem) and he said yes, but there was butter in them...what?!?!? I'm not concerned with contamination of dairy as my allergy isn't so serious that contamination is a factor, but I just didn't want it cooked into my food. I then said, ok, so I guess I can't get anything then? And rather than offering to let the Chef know or accommodate me in some way (not a difficult thing), he just agreed! I told him I was good then and just wouldn't have anything and he moved on to the next guest in my party. What the heck!!! As I mentioned, this is a new allergy for me but I have been to several other restaurants with it (and worked in several restaurants myself) and never experienced anyone being unable to accommodate me in some way. How are you unable to just cook a few eggs without butter in them, I mean really!!!???!!! So I sat and watched other people eat while I nibbled on some fruit, what a great meal! The server who originally started serving us and who wouldn't accommodate my allergy disappeared about half way through the meal and we started being serviced by a combination of other people. The original guy (name unknown due to no nametags) was seen walking around our table and serving other tables, but never came back again.

As a separate issue, another guest in my party ordered an extra side of toast after the entrees were delivered. We waited and waited, and they finally brought the toast out after our plates had already been cleared. We kindly told the person delivering it that we would pass since we were already done with our meals.

As someone who's worked in hospitality for over a decade, I have sympathy for busy days and I am more than understanding when there are service issues. But in this case, I was appalled at the lack of service and care given to our party (enough to share this). Not wanting to make a scene, I asked for the manager after we paid our bill, just to enlighten him - not get anything for it. I waited for about five minutes and nobody came. I finally just gave up and left because clearly he couldn't be bothered. I am so disappointed because I really did like this place! But after this, I'm more than happy to take my...

Doherty’s Irish Pub & Restaurant in Apex is hands down one of the best spots in the Triangle for an authentic Irish pub experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm, cozy atmosphere that feels both lively and inviting. The traditional Irish décor, friendly staff, and overall ambiance make it a fantastic place to unwind, whether you’re visiting for a casual dinner, a night out with friends, or to catch a game.

The food is absolutely top-notch! Their fish and chips are some of the best I’ve had—crispy, golden batter with perfectly flaky fish inside. The shepherd’s pie is rich, hearty, and full of authentic flavors, while the corned beef and cabbage is melt-in-your-mouth tender. If you’re a burger fan, their Doherty’s Burger is a must-try! The menu has something for everyone, including great vegetarian options.

Beyond the food, their drink selection is incredible. They have a well-curated selection of Irish beers like Guinness, Smithwick’s, and Harp on tap, alongside a great selection of local craft beers. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, their Irish Mule and Jameson Old Fashioned are perfectly balanced and delicious. The bartenders really know their craft and make excellent recommendations.

Another standout feature of Doherty’s is their live music and events. The atmosphere is always fun, whether it’s trivia night, live music, or just a busy weekend crowd enjoying good food and drinks. It’s also a fantastic place to watch sports, especially soccer and rugby, with plenty of TVs and a crowd that’s always in good spirits.

The service is consistently outstanding—the staff is friendly, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure a great experience. Even when the place is packed, they handle everything with efficiency and a smile.

Overall, Doherty’s Irish Pub is a 5-star experience all the way. Whether you’re craving classic Irish comfort food, a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, or just a great place to hang out, this place delivers every time....

I hate leaving negative reviews, and not all experiences will be perfect. Unfortunately this wasn't a good experience.

The restaurant itself is a neat place with clean tables, seats, and bathrooms. The bathrooms are single units. One male one female. It's easy to get a line down the little hallway. And the booths are much lower than the tables - Fyi mom and dad's with little ones* I'm not sure about the TV channel choices for a pub. The music was interesting. The food was good when we got to eat it. Came out hot, and by the time we were able to get utensils, ketchup, plates....and napkins, the food was lukewarm. The waitress kept forgetting about us. We had to ask for water 3 times, and she forgot ice in one glass and the lemons. It was a comedy show. We got fries, no ketchup, water, no ice, an appetizer to share, no plates or utensils, food, no utensils. Shareable dessert, no plates, no napkins, no forks.

The Guinness was served in some odd smaller pint glass when I ordered a large. I didn't get what I paid for. I know the Guinness Company used to have an agreement that all Guinness must be served in Guinness glasses. Plus, the cost of the Guinness was over the top, and the beer was warmer than usual.

Getting the bill and my method of payment back became a game of how many times she would pass us by after we asked for the tab. It was 11 times. 7 for the method of payment to come back. 9 for boxes. 3 for a bag to carry the Togo boxes 😒 If you're in a rush, put the card up as you order. They were not busy yet. We caught them right before the dinner rush. The place is pricy: one bowl of soup and an appetizer to share, dessert to share. 2 fish and chips. 2 glasses of water and 1 beer. About $100.00

2 musicians were set up. We left before the music got started. I can not give a review of the entertainment. The company was perfect, and the food was good, I can't really leave a detailed review about it. The service killed it. The service was less...