An eagerly awaited neighborhood tavern is beginning to stir in South Boston.
Mother’s East Tavern is gearing up to open in the former Telegraph Hill space at 289 Dorchester St. The team recently posted a hiring call seeking front- and back-of-house positions, including servers, bartenders, cooks, and dishwashers.
While specifics remain scarce for now, the tavern’s social media presence promises “cold beer,” “choice liquors,” and “fine foods,” paired with a warmhearted ethos rooted in comfort and familiarity.
“After weeks of reflection, we realized her name: @motherseasttavern — New England as our home, the return to the motherland,” reads an Instagram post from the business. “The warm embrace of the familiar. What could be more welcoming than a night at Mother’s? When you turn onto Dot St. and see this jewel box, she’s waiting for you. She’s waiting for anyone in need of a seat to rest, a thirst to quench, a belly to fill. We’re doing her up good & proper. Stay tuned.”
Behind the project are co-owners and Quincy residents Laura Fryer and Alec Barber Grossi, who first announced the venture nearly a year ago, calling themselves the “proud owners of this 130-year-old bar.”
The couple’s history stretches back about a decade to Oakland, California, where they worked together at the now-closed Flora Restaurant. Over the years, Grossi has honed his craft, serving as bartender and bar manager at various acclaimed establishments across California and New Orleans.
Plans for Mother’s East Tavern were approved by the Boston Licensing Board at a November 2025 hearing, according to Universal Hub. At the hearing, Grossi described the establishment as “a true neighborhood public house,” where guests can drop in for a pint of beer or a pot of tea alongside comforting fare.
A representative for the team told What Now Boston that timelines and press materials are still being finalized, with more details to be shared in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for official grand opening details.
“Until then, we’re rolling the dice and praying for sixes,” Fryer continued on Instagram. “Come see us in Boston 🍀 We love you xx”
