On April 12, Saloon will host the second annual tribute evening in honor of Ken Kelly, notable Somerville restaurateur and business leader who passed in December 2015, after a long battle with cancer. In 2001, Kelly founded The Independent in Union Square and later opened sister restaurants Foundry on Elm, Saloon, Brass Union and River Bar in addition to the Rockwell Theater.

At this night of remembrance held on Kelly’s birthday, attendees will raise funds to support the three cyclists riding the Pan-Mass Challenge in his name. The Pan-Mass Challenge raises money for cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and all funds will be donated to Dana-Farber, helping Alan Kelly, Conor Brennan, and Paulo Pereira achieve their PMC fundraising goals. The event will feature live music from Ronan Quinn, the Johnny Come Latelies and Paddy Saul. Additionally, there will be a complimentary buffet, cash bar, and a raffle.

Also in tribute to Kelly on his birthday, his five sister restaurants – The Independent, Foundry on Elm, Saloon, Brass Union and River Bar – will feature a special cocktail in his honor where 100% of the sales will be donated to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The limited edition Rathcline Cocktail A Tribute to Ken Kelly ($16) is a variation on the classic Tipperary, features a “Ken Kelly” exclusive bottling of Whistle Pig 10 Year Single Barrel Rye, with Strega, Cocchi Torrino, Cynar, and Bittermans Tiki Bitters. The cocktail will launch at the event and will be available at all five locations while supplies last.

Where: Saloon, 255 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144. When: Wednesday, April12, 6:00 – 11:00 p.m.

Tickets $50 available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fundraiser-to-honor-ken-kelly-tickets-32697426884