Blue Moon’s Next Chapter
Some stories stand out not because of their size, but because of their sincerity. Blue Moon is one of them.
The restaurant began with Alejandra and Silvano Garcia, whose shared vision was simple but profound: to create a place where good food and genuine hospitality could bring people together. In 2008, Alejandra took a leap of faith, convincing Silvano to leave his career in trucking to join her in the kitchen. What started as an idea quickly became a family endeavor; and, in time, a community fixture.
When the Garcias purchased their first location on S. Flores, they chose to keep its original name, Blue Moon, honoring the building’s history and the stories it carried. Over the years, that name has come to represent far more than a place; it’s become a reflection of the values that define them: consistency, care, and connection.
From the beginning, Blue Moon has been a family operation in every sense. The Garcias built their business together, working side by side through long days and full dining rooms. Along the way, they built a loyal following of guests who have become like extended family - people who return week after week, often spanning generations, drawn by a sense of familiarity that’s rare to find.
The restaurant’s recent expansion to the Blue Star District marks the next chapter of that story. The move reflects both growth and gratitude, a continuation of what began nearly two decades ago on the South Side. The new space (formerly home to Chef Johnny Hernandez’s Burgerteca) came to the Garcias through a shared respect between restaurateurs. A longtime supporter and regular guest at their original S. Flores location, Chef Hernandez believed the neighborhood would be best served by a local, family-owned restaurant. His encouragement and partnership helped make the transition possible, setting the stage for Blue Moon’s next era in Southtown.
When the doors opened at Blue Star, many of the same guests who had supported them from the start were there to celebrate. It’s a moment that captured what makes this restaurant special. Blue Moon’s story is one of endurance, trust, and community. It’s a reminder that when a business is built on relationships, growth feels natural.
At Hagan Rivas, we’ve had the privilege of helping tell this story through brand strategy, photography, and creative direction. Yet the heart of Blue Moon’s success has never needed much translation. It’s visible in the way the Garcias greet their guests, in the warmth of their dining room, and in the care they bring to every plate.
Blue Moon isn’t simply a restaurant; it’s a reflection of what happens when tradition, family, and community move in unison.
