I'm not sure where I first read/heard about Moondog HiFi but it has intrigued me for some time. I…read morelove listening bars for many reasons: the music is a central part of the experience rather than blending in to the background, they oftentimes have a spirit of community, and they are a lower key alternative to clubs for audiophile-leaning folks who want to avoid lines, crowds, covers, and unnecessary hype. Moondog HiFi is certainly appealing for these reasons, but it also happens to offer delicious Middle Eastern food and an impressive cocktail program. In this way it's a triple threat -- and maybe a quadruple threat if you consider the fact that it's kind of off the beaten path to the point that it can only be sought out rather than stumbled upon, which is an important distinction. Though we came here to pregame in a sense, I found myself wishing we had stayed here instead of venturing to our next destination, which says something about my preferences and propensity for FOMO but also says something about the quality of experience you get at Moondog HiFi.
We came here on New Year's Eve for a late dinner and drinks, at around 9:15pm. Though I had this spot bookmarked for some time, I didn't register how removed it is until we walked over from the Morgan Ave L stop. Though it's relatively close to other nightlife, it's on a street that feels almost desolate, such that you may begin to question that you got the location wrong. But once you arrive, you'll know you're in the right place. There is considerable outdoor space here, making Moondog HiFi an awesome spot for groups and long nights in good weather. That said, we came on a frigid night so only indoors was open, meaning I can't speak to outdoor vibes. But if they're anything like the indoor vibes, you'll be in for a good time.
We made a reservation here beforehand which was definitely the move -- at least when you anticipate the place being busy -- as the indoor space is relatively small and narrow. Many people here seemed have the same idea as we did, as we saw a lot of folks enjoying shared plates at their tables. Though the music is the main draw and the cocktails a close second, the food -- which is by the chef who runs Balaboosta -- is not to be missed.
Drink-wise, Moondog Hifi offers an impressive cocktail menu alongside plenty of other beverage options. We stuck to cocktails, as the menu looked too good to stray from. To start, I got the Exquisite Corpse (Thai Basil, Arak, Lemon, Lillet, Gin) and my partner got the When Birds Cry (Mezcal, Mastiha, Lime, Grapefruit Soda). I thought the Exquisite Corpse would be similar to a Corpse Reviver #2 given the name and ingredients, but it was a lot sweeter than I expected. I was in luck, though, because my partner liked it a lot and I very much enjoyed the When Birds Cry, so we swapped. The Figroni (Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Fig Syrup, Campari) was my other favorite drink of the night, a nice wintry variation on the classic. I was a bit worried that it would also skew too sweet given that figs alone are quite sweet, but it was very well balanced and super tasty.
As I mentioned, the food here is as much of a draw as anything else. Kind of a Middle Eastern-Mexican fusion, which happen to be two of my preferred cuisines. The menu is mostly smaller plates that are great for sharing with good options for folks who have dietary preferences or restrictions. We got a solid variety of dishes and left thoroughly satisfied and impressed. Eats, below:
Shrimp Taco w/ Slaw, Sweet Harissa, Pineapple, Pickled Red Onions
I love a shrimp taco and this hit the spot. Super flavorful and bright.
Chicken Shawarma Hummus w/ Tahini, Passionate S'chug, Tirchi Pickles, Tortilla Chips
I can see why folks rave about the hummus because this was excellent. The texture, the flavor -- it all worked. It's also a decent portion and surprisingly filling, so keep that in mind when you're trying to figure out how much to order.
Brussels Sprouts w/ Spicy Date Glaze, Pistachio
There's not much that can go wrong with this combo. Pairing roasted brussels sprouts with some kind of sweetness like date/pomegranate with some chopped nuts to add some texture and you've got yourself a winning side dish.
Slaw Salad w/ Cilantro, Mint, Scallion, Pickled Chayote, Crispy Tortilla, Miso-Tahini
This was the surprise stunner for me. It was a nice complement to the richer and warmer dishes, but beyond that it was really interesting and unique and flavorful. I hesitate to say it was my favorite of the night because everything we ordered was memorable but it's telling that I was wanting a second order of this at the end of the meal despite being quite full.