Moondog Growlers is a Dunwoody craft beer bar and growler shop that opened in 2012, known for about 40 rotating taps and a neighborly vibe. Owners Tommy and Felicia Burda bought it in 2017 and opened Moondog Pub & Grub in Chamblee along the Rail Trail behind Whole Foods, with a full kitchen, a dog-friendly patio, live music, trivia and a bourbon club.
Moondog Growlers holds a special place in my heart. It was the first on-location interview Justin and I ever recorded back in the early podcast days. Fast forward to today and owners Tommy and Felicia Burda have spread that same welcoming Dunwoody vibe to Chamblee with Moondog Pub & Grub.
Tommy swore he would never open a restaurant, but then he spotted the perfect building behind Whole Foods along the Rail Trail. Now Moondog Pub & Grub is serving up Wisconsin cheese curds, prime rib Saturdays and a brunch that makes you want to linger all afternoon.
The place feels like an extension of the neighborhood, with dogs napping on the patio, friends catching up over bourbon flights, families dropping by on a bike ride, and live music from local favorites like the Mike Veal Band and The Gregory Marshall Roth Band filling the room most nights. It is everything locals love about Moondog Growlers, just with a full kitchen and even more space to kick back and feel at home.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, and check out Moondog Pub & Grub.
The Story of Moondog Growlers
Moondog Growlers opened in Dunwoody in 2012 and became the neighborhood’s unofficial community center, with about 40 rotating taps of Georgia and other craft beers. Tommy and Felicia bought it in 2017 because they loved its “Cheers without the liquor shots” feel. Regulars like Paul Holder still make newcomers feel at home by buying them a pint.
From Moondog Growlers to Moondog Pub & Grub
In 2022, Tommy spotted an empty building in Chamblee and couldn’t stop thinking about it. With support from the City of Chamblee, they opened Moondog Pub & Grub right on the Rail Trail behind Whole Foods. People bike in from Keswick Park and Huntley Hills, park and hang out on the dog-friendly patio.
What’s on the Menu
- Wisconsin cheese curds, inspired by a Packers trip to Green Bay
- German soft pretzels with beer cheese
- Lightly battered fried pickles
- Prime rib Saturdays, roasted in-house
- Sunday brunch
Tommy says they do things the right way, like breaking down chicken in-house instead of buying it pre-prepped. They also have 20 rotating taps and a monthly Bourbon Club on the third Thursday.
Weekly Events
- Open mic every other Monday, hosted by Dunwoody’s Tom Carter
- Team trivia Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
- Live music Wednesdays with the Mike Veal Band
- Live music Fridays with rotating local acts
- Music bingo Saturdays at 7 p.m.
Dogs, Rescues and Community
The dog-friendly patio is more than a theme. Tommy and Felicia have four rescue dogs, and they host adoption events with Lifeline most Saturdays, with a gift card for anyone who adopts.
The Team Behind Moondog
Tommy calls Felicia the backbone of the business. She runs music bookings, private events, the website and social media. In Chamblee, General Manager David Watkins, a Marine Corps veteran and Cicerone-certified beer expert, leads the team with Luis in the kitchen and Corey as assistant GM.
My Take
Moondog Growlers is a Dunwoody classic, and I’m so happy to see Tommy and Felicia bring that same feel to Chamblee. If you’re comparing the two cities, read my Dunwoody vs Chamblee episode and my Moving to Chamblee guide. For more spots, here’s my Dunwoody restaurant guide.
Thinking About Moving to Dunwoody?
Read my Moving to Dunwoody guide, search Dunwoody homes for sale, or text me or call 404-502-8683.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moondog Growlers
When did Moondog Growlers open?
Moondog Growlers opened in Dunwoody in 2012. Tommy and Felicia Burda bought it in 2017.
Where is Moondog Pub & Grub?
In Chamblee, along the Rail Trail behind Whole Foods.
Is Moondog Pub & Grub dog friendly?
Yes. It has a dog-friendly patio and hosts dog adoption events with Lifeline most Saturdays.
What events does Moondog Pub & Grub host?
Open mic nights, trivia Tuesdays, live music Wednesdays and Fridays, music bingo Saturdays and a monthly Bourbon Club.