They are no stranger to outrageously large and unique venues that burst with excitement; and Moon Dog’s newest venue on the block does not steer away from this pattern. Moon Dog Wild West is their newest venue and will be set in the heart of Footscray, in the old Franco Cozzo building. They keep getting bigger and better, but this sure is bigger than ever. If you thought their Preston venue Moon Dog World was big, you might want to think again, as this will be twice the size.
Doors are officially open to Moon Dog Wild West. Gathering from the name, their new venue puts a western spin on their well-trusted hospitality experience. “We’re so excited to join the vibrant Footscray community in such an iconic location; the support has been
overwhelming, and we can’t wait to finally throw open the doors and welcome everyone in for a cold beer.” Karl van Buuren, Moon Dog co-founder.
With a sweeping open canyon throughout the venue, Moon Dog Wild West spans three levels, boasts over 100 taps, and will fit up to 800 patrons. This is their biggest venture yet and bound to be a showstopper. Enter the swinging saloon doors to the ground floor where the largest bar of the venue lays and a bucking bull stands strong as the centrepiece. They will be introducing the Western Bull Riders Club to Moon Dog Wild West; their bull riding league that’s all about a buckin’ good time. Horseshoe booths, a western arcade, The Kids’ Ranch and a private dining room nestled amongst the width of the entrance floor.
Make your way up to the first floor where the Honky Tonk bar awaits. Here, sits the live music stage (inspired by the
Blues Brothers), pool tables, and a balcony outpost lounge. Before reaching the rooftop, make sure to seek out a hip
flask of bourbon from the secret Pianola Bar and 100+ pax function space on the first floor. Top it all off with a visit to the final floor; the rooftop. The adventure to the top floor will take you out of Melbourne and into a western, desert dream. Soak up the sunshine amongst the city views and rooftop cacti. A tequila sunrise from the cocktail bar paired with a taco tray from the cantina will settle you in rather nicely.
Moon Dog will of course be serving their wide range of craft beers and seltzers alongside a variety of wines, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic offerings, with fandango specials like Horseshoe Espresso Martinis, Tequila Sunrise Slushies and Cowboy Shots served in miniature cowboy boots. The cocktail/shot menu is carefully curated by 3x Australian Bartender of the Year, Chris Hysted-Adams.
Whether it’s a casual visit with family or you’re locked in for a session with your best mates, the gastropub classics like burgers and parmas will tickle everyone’s cravings. Alas; it cannot be western inspired without sizzling fajitas, double decker tacos and a romping 1kg T-bone steak.
Moon Dog Wild West is open 7 days and is located at 54 Hopkins Street, Footscray
For more information and opening hours visit moondog.com.au/wild-west
Images by Arianna Leggiero
