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The Little Panda cocktail from Tall Order. / Photo courtesy

When Tall Order opens later this year in the space of the old Thirsty Scholar pub, it will be “a friendly neighborhood cocktail bar,” says co-owner Daren Swisher. “Understated but inviting” – a fitting atmosphere for the longtime pub in Somerville’s District Two, just blocks from the bustle of Inman Square. (The Thirsty Scholar itself has been fairly understated in its decades of operation, save for a Hollywood twist as a setting for the fictional Mark Zuckerberg, who was dumped in the 2010 film. The social network.)

“We’re excited to be able to shape the entire guest experience at Tall Order,” says Swisher. He and co-owner Joseph Cammarata are also behind Best of Boston winner Daiquiris & Daisies at Boston food hall High Street Place, where their cocktail bar is one of about 20 food and drink vendors. Previously, the duo co-managed the (very fun) bar at Hojoko in the Fenway.

Although the tall order menus aren’t finalized yet, Swisher says to expect plenty of low- and non-alcoholic beverages, “as well as some things that require more prep that we don’t have time or space for in the food hall.” One cocktail that will definitely be on the menu is something the duo calls the Little Panda, which Swisher describes as bamboo infused with the flavors of a Ti’ Punch, made with dry vermouth, fino sherry, sirop de canne, lime, and white rum agricole. A New England-focused selection of craft beers and a “value-oriented” wine list will round out the drink options, Swisher says, while the food will be “thoughtful, affordable New American cuisine that we hope will resonate in the neighborhood.”

Aiming for an early fall opening, Swisher and Cammarata are giving the old Thirsty Scholar space a “complete makeover” without “radical changes,” Swisher said. “We really liked the framework (of the space): the hardwood floors, the old wood bar and the back patio. Somerville was always at the top of our list when looking for locations for a standalone concept, and finding a space with character – that lived-in charm – was definitely a plus. We’re keeping a lot of the existing woodwork and layout, but updating the furnishings and design to give the space a new identity.”

What are the owners of Tall Order most looking forward to? “Getting to know our new neighbors and being part of the outstanding bar and restaurant community in Somerville,” says Swisher.

70 Beacon St., Somerville, instagram.com/tallorderbar.