Moonshine Shines Brightly In Wicker Park

By D.C. CRENSHAW

Updated 6:30 PM CST, Thu, Sep 25, 2008

Print Email Share TWITTER FACEBOOK

The Mrs. and I like hanging out in the Wicker Park area often for breakfast, brunch or lunch. That area has been bustling since the revitalization period started to take place when I arrived in Chicago about nine years ago. We have some favorites on West Division Street such as Milk and Honey, Crust, and Smoke Daddy BBQ. But now I can add a new spot to our list of Wicker Park places that I had never tried before -- Moonshine! Moonshine, surprisingly has a cool and hip vibe that makes it a nice place to dine or watch the game. The menu consists of specialty thin-crust pizzas, sandwiches, appetizers and several hearty entrees. While searching for a better brew to pair with its upscale bar cuisine, Moonshine decided to make beer in-house instead of looking elsewhere. They tapped brew master Reverend Bob Kitrell, a former Goose Island brewer, to handcraft quality beers with spirit and soul. Although I'm not much of a beer drinker, I thoroughly enjoyed the two brews that I gulped down, while watching the thrashing of Ohio State at the hands of USC. Moonshine's current brews on tap are Sin City, Chronic, and Alpha Dog. The Alpha Dog went nicely with my mahi-mahi tacos. Reverend Bob brews his beers primarily in the American tradition, using ingredients from the Midwest whenever possible. Drawing from his own experiences is what made him an award-winning Brew Master. But what makes Moonshine a great place to hang out is their music. There's nothing like kicking back a few while listening to the DJ spin a mix of classic R&B, house and current hits. Good food, great brews and jammin music...nuff said! Check out Moonshine at www.moonshinechicago.com, 1824 W. Division St., Chicago, IL (773) 862-8686. As always, check out Fete Select TV for an inside look at the newest and best restaurants around the globe. Or check out www.efete.net for more restaurant tips.