Moon Dog Tavern

I had a great experience at the Moon Dog Tavern. I was meeting people here for trivia on a Tuesday, and my first impression when I walked in was: why are there so many people dressed well in here? Judging by this, I think many business people come here after work for drinks and dinner as it is near the Keystone business district. The trivia was fun, challenging, and the prizes were decent for bar trivia. It was a little hard to hear the trivia DJ overall all the talking, but we managed. Trivia starts at 7:30 and lasts for a few hours.

The food and drinks were all great. Our group ordered a Margarita pizza, which was large and delicious. It's made with a garlic crust, mozzarella cheese, and fresh Roma tomatoes, alongside sprinkles of basil. I highly recommend ordering pizza if you come here with a large group and are looking for something big to share. A few members also ordered the chicken ranch roll-up that came with potato chips, and some other various appetizers (which are half-off on Tuesday evenings). The drinks were great, too. I ordered a pitcher of their Four Horsemen Irish Red, which was around $6, and some specialty shots from the bar. The specialty shots are sort of expensive, but they taste amazing. It depends on whether you're going for a drunk evening or a this-tastes-good evening.

The Moon Dog is an underdog, but rising contender on my A-list, and how!

At first glance, the place isn't much more than your typical Midwest pub. And let's be honest...it is. BUT -- it's got several marks in the "win" column that earn it the extra star and, most important, my repeat business.

1) Great specials!

In a world where eating/dining out regularly gets f***ing expensive fast, it's nice to have a break once in a while. I typically go on Mondays, where they have $3.00 pints and $6.00 sandwiches...with a soda included!

2) Above-average fare

I've had a couple of REALLY good meals here. And while I've had one or two that I regretted, I liked my first meal enough to want to branch out and explore the menu.

3) Nice staff

I can mostly only speak for the bartenders, but they're pretty cool. I got a GREAT food recommendation my last visit, plus the guy actually knew his beer pretty well.

4) Free WiFi

I admit it: I drink and surf. And why not?? Here, you can -- to your heart's content.

All in all -- I'm not sure I'd say this place is a destination, but if you're anywhere in the 96th St. area and looking for some food or a libation, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

There is nothing special about Moon Dog...but there is nothing bad about it. I do like that there is a good draught selection. I have not had the pizza in a long time, but I remember that it was quite tasty. They do not have a shortage of fried bar food. I am not wild about it being on 96th st which worries me because I do not live close and there are always Carmel cops lurching...so I have to be extra responsible.

If you live close I would give it a shot. They also have quite a few televisions, so if you are looking for sports, you can usually find it. There is also outdoor seating in the warmer months. Oh, and I think there is a music venue attached....but I have never been in there. I only hear the sounds when I visit the RR.