A neighborhood gathering place that began with a birthday gift and a kegerator is set to become a full-fledged Irish pub in Gilbert. Riley’s Irish Pub, a new concept from longtime Gilbert residents Brian and Cheryl Riley, is slated to open at Epicenter at Agritopia in Fall 2026, bringing traditional Irish food, proper pints, live music, sports, and a traditional Irish snug to the mixed-use East Valley destination.
Construction is underway on the approximately 2,000-sq.-ft. pub, which will take over the former Source space and accommodate about 100 guests. The concept draws inspiration from the Rileys’ Irish heritage, travels throughout Ireland, and the community they have built in Gilbert since moving to the city in 2008.
From a Garage Gathering Place to Riley’s Irish Pub
The idea for Riley’s Irish Pub can be traced to the COVID-19 pandemic, when Cheryl gave Brian a two-tap kegerator for his birthday. Their garage soon became a gathering place for friends and neighbors during a difficult time. A pair of taps eventually grew to five and then 17, while casual get-togethers helped strengthen relationships throughout the neighborhood. The experience inspired the couple to create a permanent gathering place based on the same sense of community.
“We want Riley’s to become the kind of place where everyone feels welcome, remembered, and appreciated,” says Brian. “A true neighborhood pub where you can walk in and feel like you belong, whether you’re stopping in for a quick pint, meeting friends for dinner, bringing your family, listening to live music, or celebrating a special occasion.”…