New Thirsty Scholar Promises 'Same Pub Charm' In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, MA — The Thirsty Scholar has made a triumphant return to Somerville after being closed since last summer.

The popular neighborhood bar – known in part for being the backdrop of the opening scene in the 2010 film "The Social Network" – debuted under different ownership, with a new chef and refined bar menu, but promises the "same pub charm."

Heading up the kitchen is chef Matthew Bullock, previously of Peregrine and Lord Hobo Brewing, who puts his own spin on barroom favorites, including a trio of chicken wing selections – buffalo, hoison-chili or plain – and tater tots, prepared salt and vinegar-style, with garlic parsley aioli.

The menu also includes New England IPA-battered fish and chips; the Scholar Burger, stacked with pickles, a pimento spread, American cheese and shredded lettuce; and Carnival Fried Dough.

But The Thirsty Scholar wants to remain the ultimate neighborhood watering hole, featuring a rotating selection of close to 20 beers on tap, a dozen more available by bottle or can, and cocktails like the Boulevardier and an Old Fashioned.

The bar will be open 4-11 p.m. for food and drinks, with the bar remaining open until 1 a.m. each night. In the coming weeks, The Thirsty Scholar will offer entertainment like a weekly trivia night.

The Thirsty Scholar is located at 70 Beacon Street in Somerville.