It's the end of an era for a beloved Phoenix sports grill, as Half Moon Windy City Sports Grill prepares to shut down after 18 years of service. Owners Don Talbot and Clay Moizo have been forced to call it quits after their landlord decided not to renew their lease, making way instead for residential development, ABC15 reported.
Talbot and Moizo, who said the Super Bowl on Sunday would be their last day in business, admitted the announcement was a tough pill to swallow. "It's kind of a kick in the gut," Talbot told 12 News. "I mean, we've been here for 18 years. It’s what you know and what you’re comfortable with." The grill, known for its lively atmosphere and connection to the Chicago community, was a hotspot for sports fans and fostered memories like roasting a goat to break the Cubs’ infamous curse during their 2016 World Series run.
The community's response to the closure has been one of overwhelming support. The owners have been inundated with messages from regulars devastated by the news but eager to throw back one last round of drinks in a place peppered with nostalgia and champagne stains from historic victories. To give back, the grill rolled back prices to yesteryears', offering patrons a reason to visit before the final whistle blows. “A lot of hugs tonight, and probably a lot of shots," Moizo remarked to 12 News.
Yet, this isn't a complete goodbye from the duo behind Half Moon Windy City Sports Grill. They have a roster of other local venues, including Halfmoon Sports Grill, Foley Ranch, Stir Crazy Comedy Club, and a number of Scramble restaurants throughout the Valley. The staff, they assured, will be offered positions within these properties. "We just need to find the right location and the right area to have it make sense," Moizo explained to ABC15, suggesting that a new Half Moon could emerge if the stars align just right.
As Phoenix confronts the reality of another local haunt succumbing to the relentless march of development, the barflies, and die-hard Chicago sports fans must now find a new watering hole. But for anyone looking to catch the final game at this institution, the Half Moon Grill located at 2121 E Highland Ave is the spot to be before the shutters are drawn for the last time.
