Above, a traditional Irish session is shown from a 2025 article in BostonIrish.com.
Session House, a new concept from Esteemed Hospitality, LLC, is expected to open in early fall 2026, according to managing partner Teresa Murphy.
The restaurant will put a strong emphasis on live music, including traditional Irish music as well as contemporary performers. Murphy said the owners hope to bring a new “soul ceól” to Adams Village while creating a destination for dining, drinks and gatherings.
“Along with great food, craft beer and cocktails, we will have live musical guests and performers that will make this the premier spot for social gatherings in Dorchester,” Murphy said.
Its food program will feature an elevated take on pub fare, Murphy said, drawing inspiration from both Irish and New England traditions. The bar will offer whiskey, cocktails, wine and a selection of beers.
Live music will be central to the operation. The owners are building the concept around what they call “SOUL CEÓL,” or “soul music,” with traditional Irish sessions sharing the calendar with contemporary performances.
The interior is planned with dark tones, gold detailing and traditional musical imagery, according to a press release shared with The Reporter.
The name “Session House” is also intended to reflect the concept: “Session” refers to the Irish tradition of musicians gathering informally to play together, while “House” evokes the idea of a welcoming neighborhood home.
“Come for the music. Stay for the soul,” reads the venue’s tagline.
Murphy said an “early fall” opening is anticipated.
Session House will replace Scobie’s Cafe & Bar, which opened in September 2024. The family-run Irish pub owned by Anne and John Lydon, announced in January that its Adams Village location would temporarily close beginning Feb. 2 for renovations, with plans at the time to reopen in the spring.
However, the space has remained closed with little activity on the site until recently, when Esteemed Hospitality posted signs seeking potential employees for their new venture.
