Our Story: Chef Charlie Dolan & Harding On Main

After more than 20 years in the culinary world, Chef Charlie Dolan followed his lifelong dream and opened Harding On Main in 2025 — bringing a fresh, inspired dining experience to the heart of Cañon City.

Chef Charlie’s vision is simple but bold: reinvent classic dishes with modern flair, infuse global influences, and build a thriving food culture rooted in community. From thoughtful technique to creative flavor profiles, every dish at Harding On Main reflects his passion for food as a true art form.

“Being a chef is a wonderful opportunity — people need food and drink, and it’s a privilege to provide that. Anyone can cook, but being a chef requires true love and passion for what you’re creating. Food is an art. I’ve created art my entire life, and the attention to detail that process teaches me is something I bring into every plate.”
– Chef Charlie Dolan

At Harding On Main, we're not just serving meals — we're cultivating a community. Chef Charlie is committed to supporting local farmers, ranchers, artisans, and other small businesses. From sourcing fresh, local ingredients to showcasing the work of Cañon City artists in our dining space, every part of our restaurant is designed to celebrate and elevate our community.

“A restaurant like this has been a long time coming in Cañon City. We’re proud to use local products and partner with nearby vendors — not just because it tastes better, but because it helps all of us grow together. Harding On Main isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a place to connect.”

So what makes Harding On Main stand out? It’s our commitment to bold flavors, creative plates, and authentic connections.

“We’re offering a new palette to Cañon City. As good as a classic burger is, there’s so much more to food. I want to introduce people to something new — something exciting — and do it in a way that supports and uplifts the entire community.”

Molly Dolan & Harding On Main

Harding On Main is a sibling venture founded by Molly Dolan and her brother, Chef Charlie Dolan. Together, they’ve combined their passions—culinary creativity and craft cocktails—to bring something fresh and memorable to Cañon City.

Meet Molly

With over 15 years in the bar industry, Molly Dolan has developed multiple bar programs and built a reputation for her inventive approach to mixology. At Harding On Main, she leads the bar program, crafting cocktails that are as thoughtful as they are bold.

“The creativity is what drives me. It’s exciting to create something new—whether it’s a modern twist on a classic or a completely original cocktail. One of my favorites right now is the ‘Miso-Corney’—it’s launching with our summer menu this June.”

Molly works closely with Chef Charlie to ensure each drink pairs perfectly with the food, often using overlapping ingredients for a truly connected experience.

Fresh, Local, Inspired

The bar program at Harding On Main prioritizes fresh, seasonal ingredients—many of which are sourced from local farms right here in Cañon City. From herbs to produce, every detail is intentional.

“You can walk into any bar and get a Jack and Coke. But here, every cocktail has been carefully developed, tested, and refined before it ever hits the menu. You won’t find this level of creativity just anywhere.”

More Than Just a Restaurant

Harding On Main is designed to be more than a place to eat—it’s a place to gather, connect, and create memories. Located in a historic building that also houses local businesses and vendors, the space itself is a hub for community.

“We want Harding On Main to be a place people remember—not just for the food and drinks, but for the experience.”