After weeks of either non-stop rain or sweltering heat, Luna Kitchen + Cocktails filled its rooftop bar with hungry customers excited to listen to live music by The Smolens on July 21.
“The weather has been more consistent the past few days, so it was a nice turn out,” said Luna Kitchen + Cocktails Proprietor Augie Femminella.
The crowd came from all over to enjoy unique cocktails and upscale eats. Luna Kitchen + Cocktails is the rooftop bar above Abbiocco Italian Cuisine. Luna features a dynamic atmosphere with excellent service, complete with a fully retractable roof overlooking greenery just minutes away from Chesterton’s Coffee Creek.
While Abbiocco Italian Cuisine is known for its high end dining downstairs, Luna hosts a completely different menu upstairs.
“Upstairs with Luna, we have a comfort food menu: burgers, pizza, sandwiches, shareable appetizers,” explained Femminella. “Downstairs with Abbiocco, you will find more fine-dining Italian, like a nice steak or pasta.”
The separated dining spaces address different needs for different customers.
“We wanted to keep it separated so that those who want to have a nice dinner can go downstairs and come up for a drink after,” said Femminella. “For those coming from the beach who want to come and might feel underdressed for fine-dining, they can come upstairs.”
Luna Kitchen + Cocktails is perfect for those looking to gather casually with friends and family or have a drink after work.
Community Specialist at StoryPoint Senior Living, Kathy Coats, works in Chesterton Monday through Friday, but her weekend home base is in Michigan. She finally made her way to Luna after work.
“This is my first time here, and it did not disappoint,” said Coats. “I love it. I will be back.”
Coats noted that Chesterton is the place to be, and Luna adds to the welcoming and attractive list of places to visit in town.
“The food, the service, the location, the people... It feels like you’re on a vacation in Chesterton! This is a great destination and worth the drive,” said Coats.
Chesterton resident, Katy Detterline, met her friend from Arizona for cocktails and appetizers at Luna.
“My friend suggested it, which is perfect because I have wanted to come and try it,” said Detterline. “I love that they have music and that it is indoor and outdoor.”
Luna features live music every Wednesday and on the weekends.
Amy and Jeremy Smolen, The Smolens, traveled from Schererville to play live music at Luna. The Smolens’ supportive friends attended the event, but some patrons were excited to learn that they’d have live music accompanying their meals. The Smolens had a full crowd for their set.
“They always have a decent crowd here,” said Amy Smolen. “It has been really nice. We’ve played here a few times and really love it.”
The couple commented on the great audience dining out at Luna.
“The roof is open and all the tables are full,” said Jeremy Smolen. “It is really nice that everyone is singing along while they eat. Everyone is enjoying themselves.”
The Smolens noted that Luna is one of their favorite venues to play.
“The food here is fantastic and the staff is great,” said Amy Smolen. “We really do love playing here; it is a cool place. We really like Chesterton.”
Many people commented on how amazing the Luna Kitchen + Cocktails staff is, but Femminella also recognizes the great customer base Luna has.
“The community here is super nice and friendly,” said Femminella. “We get a lot of locals and regulars. They’re here two or three times a week. Even those who are only here once a month, they’re great.”
Looking for a rooftop restaurant to be a regular at? Find Luna Kitchen + Cocktails on Facebook or online. Luna’s events are listed on its website, and both Luna (@lunaontheroof) and Abbiocco (@abbioccoeats) can be found on Instagram for photos of weekly specials.