The pandemic had a significant impact on several restaurants, including local favorites like The Thirsty Scholar and R.F. O’Sullivan & Son, both located on Beacon Street in Somerville. These establishments were bought during a real estate deal and briefly relaunched under new management. Unfortunately, they soon closed again and transformed into new ventures. R.F. O’Sullivan became the Hawaiian-inspired Cornerstone, which later shifted to run Charlie’s Kitchen, and is set to evolve into Bonanza Bites & Cocktails.
Now, The Thirsty Scholar has been reborn as Tall Order, a gastropub that captures the essence of its predecessor, which is immortalized in the 2010 film "The Social Network."
The interior maintains its inviting dark wooden aesthetic, and a small patio remains available for guests. However, the menu reflects a shift towards a more refined dining experience. Standard offerings like burgers and a fried chicken sandwich are present, with the latter showcasing a unique Japanese-inspired preparation (karaage) accompanied by miso honey mustard.
Appetizers feature inventive choices such as pickled mushrooms, a rich bluefish pâté, duck confit sliders, and pork sausage wrapped in croissant dough served with dijonnaise—each providing an elevated bar snack experience.
The standout items on the menu are the iceberg lettuce salad and the roasted cod, both pleasantly surprising in their preparation. The Baby Iceberg Salad is more than just a typical wedge; it comes topped with ripe avocado, pumpkin seeds, salted cucumbers, and a deliciously zesty green goddess dressing that elevates it beyond ordinary salads. The ingredients, particularly the soft, fleshy pumpkin seeds, add texture and flavor without allergenic concern.
The roasted cod’s presentation is equally impressive. Perfectly browned and flaked, the cod is served on a bed of saffron rice that has an intriguing porridge-like consistency, alongside a shaved escarole topping that adds a fresh citrusy and vinegary zest.
Dessert features a delightful flan, complemented by croissant crumbles and more pumpkin seeds for crunch. The drink menu includes an array of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options, highlighting the Little Panda cocktail—a refreshing mix of Rhum J.M., vermouth, and fino sherry. For a non-alcoholic choice, the Blue Shroom, made from non-alcoholic rosé, cardamom, blueberry, and mushrooms is a great pick.
Tall Order
70 Beacon St., Ward 2, Somerville
Visit their website for more information.