By Craig Graves | Real Estate Broker, Hanks Realty Group
If you’ve been anywhere near the Fuse District in Gastonia, you’ve probably noticed the buzz around Durty Bull Brewing Company. Tucked right across from the CaroMont Health Park at 126 South Trenton Street, Durty Bull has quickly become a hub for good beer, great food, and even better community.
I recently sat down with Jordan Doctor, the man behind the bar (and the beer), to learn more about the story behind this unique brewery and what makes it such a special addition to downtown Gastonia.
From Homebrew to Hometown Business
Jordan grew up in the Gastonia area and eventually found his way into brewing after a career in outdoor education and sales started to wear thin.
“My wife told me to follow what I love,” Jordan said. “And I’d been homebrewing for 10 years. So we packed up and moved to Asheville where I went to brewing school.”
That passion eventually led Jordan to connect with the original Durty Bull Brewing in Durham, where he invested and started learning the ropes. A few years and a couple of big moves later, the opportunity to open a second Durty Bull location came knocking—right back in his hometown.
“It was the best of both worlds,” Jordan said. “A chance to move home, be near family, and be a part of Gastonia’s downtown revival.”
What Makes Durty Bull Different?
Let’s start with the space—because it’s massive. From a spacious interior to an expansive outdoor patio and grassy area, Durty Bull offers something for everyone. Whether you’re bringing the kids to run around, enjoying a drink with your dog, or catching up with friends around the fire pit, it’s built to be a place where the whole community can feel at home.
“We’ve had everything from two-year-old birthday parties to memorial services here,” Jordan said. “We wanted it to be a place where people could come, relax, and make it their own.”
And the beer? Top-notch. Most of it is still brewed in Durham, but a new pilot system recently arrived in Gastonia, which means small-batch, creative brews are coming soon—possibly featuring local ingredients and even coffee from their neighbor, a local roaster just behind the brewery.
Jordan’s favorite? The Liquid Lunch, a dark Czech lager that’s light, crisp, and full of roasty-toasty flavor. My personal favorite? The Extra Crispy—and judging by the crowd, I’m not alone.
Don’t Forget the Food
Durty Bull isn’t just about what’s on tap. The kitchen delivers a rotating menu of craft comfort food—flatbreads, dips, elevated grilled cheeses, and yes, the pretzels are as good as they say. The wings? Their current bestseller, and for good reason.
“We try to incorporate our beer into the food,” Jordan explained. “Our queso has Extra Crispy in it. Our mustard is made with our lager.
We’re always experimenting and evolving.”
Specials rotate weekly, and you’ll often find inventive dishes like pork belly bao buns, chicken asada tacos, or skillet desserts drizzled with salted caramel stout sauce.
Looking Ahead
Durty Bull Gastonia is still young—just eight months in—but plans are already in motion to enhance the space even further. Jordan mentioned possible murals, outdoor games, new shade systems, and more community events. But the big focus? Brewing their own beer right on site.
“We’re just getting our stride,” Jordan said. “But we’re here to grow with Gastonia.”
A Welcome Addition to Downtown Gastonia
For Jordan, opening Durty Bull in Gastonia was more than just a business move. It was personal.
“Growing up, downtown wasn’t a place people wanted to go,” he said. “Now, it’s changing. There’s history here—beautiful old buildings, great people—and it’s exciting to be part of bringing it back.”
Whether you’re stopping in before a baseball game, hanging out with friends, or just exploring downtown, Durty Bull is well worth a visit.
First Time Visiting? Here’s What to Expect
Walk in and you’ll be greeted by a bartender, a food runner, maybe even Jordan himself. You’ll be encouraged to explore the space, ask questions, and sample a few beers to find the one that’s right for you.
“We want you to feel welcome the second you walk in,” Jordan said. “We’re a big space, but we want to make it feel personal.”
That’s certainly been my experience. The people are friendly, the vibe is laid-back, and the beer and food are consistently excellent.
So next time you’re in Gastonia—or even if you’re not—make a point to stop by Durty Bull Brewing. Grab a flight, order a flatbread, and enjoy everything this local gem has to offer.
Durty Bull Brewing Gastonia
126 S Trenton St, Gastonia, NC 28052
Across from CaroMont Health Park
If you haven’t been yet—what are you waiting for? Drop by, say hi to Jordan, and tell them Craig sent you!
Pro Tip: Try the Extra Crispy and a grilled cheese. You’ll thank me later.
If you enjoyed this article, I invite you to watch the full
interview here:
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Craig Graves
Call or text me at (704) 931-5522
Email: [email protected]