The Future 50

Ri Ra Irish Pub is an emerging chain of Irish pubs designed to deliver an authentic Irish experience. The traditional casual-dining chain offers a wide selection of Irish pub fare prepared with a contemporary twist, along with an array of beers. Ri Ra Holdings LLC holds a majority stake in the chain. Restaurants are made from salvaged and refurbished pubs sent from Ireland. Interiors also feature refurbished fixtures and decor elements sourced from Ireland. Each unit is distinct, though all strive to create the quintessential Irish pub experience. Irish emigrants David Kelly and Ciaran Sheehan founded Ri Ra when they opened their first pub in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1997. As the business grew, the two became partners with Jay Luther, an experienced restaurant operator who now runs day-to-day operations at parent Ri Ra Holdings LLC.