The owner of Dugan’s Pub announced he is selling his restaurant. Alan Riley said on social media on Oct. 31 he is selling his popular Pinehurst pub to Stephen and Alley Fore, co-owners of Lighthouse at Little River in Carthage.
Dugan’s Pub is a mainstay of the Pinehurst dining scene, having won numerous awards and accolades. It was listed as one of the top 10 percent of restaurants globally. Riley also won Pinehurst Citizen of the Year in 2017.
Riley stated it was a hard decision to sell his pub. He moved in with his mother who is going blind, and said “my health is not 100%.”
“I chose to sell it to someone local that will continue its legacy,” said Riley about selling his pub to Stephen and Alley Fore. “An experienced restaurant owner, chef, local folks and a couple that will guide it into the future.”
Stephen (left) and Alley Fore pose with Lighthouse at Little River’s chef,
Tirrel Gillis. Photo via Facebook.
Stephen and Alley Fore opened Lighthouse at Little River a year ago. They also own Fore’s Family Restaurant in Laurinburg.
Riley’s journey to becoming the owner of Dugan’s Pub started in 1999. He was working another job but came to Pinehurst to volunteer during the 1999 U.S. Open. At the time, Dugan’s Pub was owned by four people.
During the U.S. Open, their grandchildren told them to hire the guy with the red hair to run the restaurant. He accepted the job that July. He became a partner in 2001. In 2014, he bought the remaining stock and became the sole proprietor.
“The love and support I will always treasure,” said Riley on Facebook. “I have been so fortunate to have had so many wonderful memories with so many people. To say I’m terrified right now, is short of words. My incredible staff, my incredible guests, my incredible community and so many incredible memories. I’m working in the morning and back Friday night to support Stephen, Alley, my great team and most of all one of the greatest pubs I’ve ever known.”
Dugan’s Pub is located at 2 Market Square in Pinehurst. You can check out their menu here.
Feature photo: Alan Riley stands in his pub in February/Sandhills Sentinel.
