04/29/2026
Ken Kelly believed in the power of community. Whether he was navigating the weirs of the Liffey River in Ireland or working to build the heart of Union Square here in Somerville, his persistence was unmatched.
They say that during the Liffey Descent, one of Ireland’s most grueling 30km canoe races, a young Ken Kelly was leading the pack. He won the Cup several times and was on track to win it again. But this time, as he approached the finish, he deliberately slowed his pace. He knew the Captain was behind him, and out of pure respect and sportsmanship, he let him take the win.
Ken brought that same spirit of tenacity, humility, and community to Somerville and our restaurant family.
To honor his legacy, we launched The Liffey Descent cocktail on Ken’s birthday - April 12 - at a very special dinner with good friends here in the pub. Proceeds from the dinner, along with a generous match from one of the dinner guests, were donated to the Somerville Museum. And from now until his next birthday, Ken’s restaurant family will be serving this special cocktail. For every cocktail sold, one dollar will be donated to the Somerville Museum to help preserve the history of the city Ken loved so much.
Come to any of the bars and restaurants listed below and raise a glass to a man who always knew when to lead, always knew how to give back and always kept the team moving forward.
