Maynard Goble, three-time entrepreneur, enjoys golf — "although you wouldn't know it by my scorecard," he says with a laugh. Goble is the co-owner of Dandelion Market (115 W. 5th St.; www.dandelionmarketcharlotte.com) as well as the recently opened Prohibition Bar (200 N. Tryon St.; www.prohibitionclt.com) — a reconstruction and melding of The Attic and Madison's, two bars previously owned by Goble and his two partners, Kevin Devin and Tommy Timmins. When Goble isn't manning the day-to-day operations of his co-owned businesses, you're most likely to find him in the Charlotte sunshine. "I spend most of my extra time outdoors," he says. If he didn't co-own his restaurants, he would be "ideally sailing around the Caribbean. As far as work, I fell in love with the service industry at a young age and haven't looked back since."
Creative Loafing: What drove the idea home for you guys to open a restaurant in Charlotte in replica of the Dandelion Market in Dublin, Ireland?
Maynard Goble: As a group, we have strong ties to Ireland as well as the Irish community in Charlotte. Kevin is from Galway, Ireland. The Dandelion Market, which existed in Dublin in the 1970s, was not only a place where vendors sold their goods. It was a place where people came to share ideas, music and poetry. It became somewhat of a cultural landmark. What we wanted to bring to Charlotte was that sense of community. After doing some research, it was clear that it was a perfect fit.
As far as restaurants, what is Charlotte still in need of? Can you provide CL readers with any teasers for future venture ideas?
That's the million dollar question. Originality. We strive to set our locations apart by adding a certain element that cannot be replicated. When looking at a potential concept, we ask ourselves, "How can we make this ours?" Finding a need and filling it is the platform to any successful restaurant. Personally, I would like to see more places that are unique to Charlotte. We [in Charlotte are a] host to so many out-of-towners, both traveling and residing; I think it's important to offer an experience that cannot be replicated in any other city.
At the moment, most of my energy is focused on our newest location, Prohibition. However, I will say there has been discussion of making some changes that would make one of Charlotte's favorites even more lovable.
Which of the 24 craft-style brews on tap at Dandelion Market is your favorite?
That's a tough one! If I had to pick, it would be the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Seasonal. They have really knocked the ball out of the park as a new commercial brewer in Charlotte. They have gone out of their way to provide a great product.