Dermot Doran doesn't listen to naysayers. When he decided to open the Happy Hatter Diner in the Medway Plaza in 2022 people said he was crazy to start such a risky business on the heels of the pandemic. "Well, I might be a little crazy but I know what I'm good at.... I'm a great cook and I love running a restaurant where people feel at home."

Originally from Castledermot Ireland, Dermot speaks with a heavy brogue that is both disarming and welcoming. "I have been working in the restaurant business most of my life, in Ireland I began at age 16 and worked my way up to head chef."

Beyond his experience in the kitchen, Dermot also brought along his brand of Irish hospitality "Back home we treat everyone like an old friend, I like to think that's a special gift I brought with me to the Happy Hatter," he said. 

Although his journey has had its bumps, the support of the Medway community has kept him pushing forward. Since the beginning he's been working to overcome limited visibility from Route109 traffic. Add to that the recent construction at the plaza and one can see why the presence of regulars has been so important. 

"I started this place on a shoestring... and if it were not for local folks, I'm not sure I would have made it." But now, after 2 years in business, the positive signs are finally all around him.

"I've found that Medway folks love an underdog and they really love fresh, home cooked meals. I am a stickler for fresh ingredients and careful preparation. I cook every meal myself and I love to see people coming back as regulars...it's the ultimate compliment."

It's true that repeat customers are the lifeblood of every restaurant and, judging by the familiar faces he sees weekly, the list of regulars just keeps growing.

One of the things that separates Happy Hatter from a typical diner is the menu. Although the stuffed omelettes and jumbo breakfasts are his signature, Dermot's menu is an amazing collection of freshness and unexpected variety.

From lobster rolls to corned beef paninis and daily prime rib to fish and chips, he's got all the bases covered. In fact, one area that the Happy Hatter really shines is with its gluten-free menu. 

"There's no reason that people with gluten intolerance can't enjoy a great meal...we take the gluten out but leave the flavor in. People tell me all the time that they appreciate our focus on special diets."

Like every great eatery, the staff is friendly and welcoming. There's a team atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. It's not unusual to hear the greeting "welcome back my friend!...what can I get you?" or, "are you having the usual today?" as patrons walk through the door.

So what's next for Dermot and the Happy Hatter? "I'm going to keep doing what I do best...serving up great food with great prices in a friendly environment...that's been the key to success so far and I plan to keep building on it."

The Happy Hatter is located at 98 Main Street (Route 109) in the Medway Plaza. (12 doors to the right of Ocean State Job Lot) The diner is open Mon.-Sun.7-5. Take-out is always available by calling 508-538-8035.

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