Red Moon

Put-in-Bay, Ohio’s Park Hotel has been here since the 19th Century and has quite a bit of history to tell. Legend has it that many of the past presidents have died on the premises and continue to haunt the halls, such as the “Governess” who watches over children at the bottom of the lobby’s stairway. The Park Hotel’s The Round House Bar is one option for those looking to tipple, but a certain type of consumer wants something sleeker, old-fashioned, and perhaps criminal. The Red Moon Speakeasy Lounge fits that bill. A speakeasy is an unlicensed bar common to the Prohibition Era, about which one is to “speakeasy” lest the police or nosy do-gooder supporters of the Temperance Movement hear tell and seize our precious giggle juice. At this Put-in-Bay restaurant, one can soak up the taboo atmosphere between a painted tin roof and hand-engraved picnic tables.

Local Prohibition-era legend tells of a fisherman turned bootlegger named Max Fox. His 30-foot Belle Isle Bearcat named “Midnight Fox” brought much-needed alcohol across Lake Erie from the liberal land of Canada. The handsome captain did well for himself, both financially and romantically, as he captured the heart of a local hotel maid named Magi. It is claimed that Max and Magi were sailing away to elope (after one last smuggling run of course) when the United States Coast Guard ambushed them. Bullets tore the Midnight Fox to shreds. When morning came, no trace of Max or Magi was found.

ADDRESS: 234 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456

Red Moon’s Cocktail Highlights:

• Crescent Moon: Hendricks gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lime, cucumber, mint, soda
• Half Moon: Tito’s vodka, amaretto, fresh strawberry, cream 
• Full Moon: Avion tequila, fresh lime, red pepper, cilantro, orange juice, Bitterman’s Hellfire Bitters
• Moon Tower: Malibu rum, lychee liqueur, Cointreau, pineapple, cherry, fresh orange
• Moonstruck: Absolut Citron vodka, fresh lemonade, mango nectar, soda, lime
• (Moon)garita: Avion tequila, agave syrup, Cointreau, orange, lemon, lime

So put on your zoot suit and toss back a Bee’s Knees at the Red Moon Speakeasy Lounge! And don’t tell the cops!

Other Put-in-Bay Bars and Attractions

Just a short taxi ride from all the biggest hotels, including the Island Club, Bay Lodging, and Put-in-Bay Resort, the Red Moon is perfectly located in the heart of downtown Put-in-Bay and all it has to offer. For example it is right across the street from Derivera Park where you can sit and enjoy the view of the Lake Erie Islands and walking distance from some of the best bars Put-in-Bay has to offer. Right next door you will find the Round House Bar and a short stroll away you will find Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille and Frosty’s. All three bars provide live entertainment and are great places to get a taste of the South Bass Island nightlife. Another must try island bar is the islands favorite tiki bar Mojito Bay. Get a margarita and enjoy the live music with this Caribbean island experience. Looking for an irish pub for a Black & Tan? Stop by the islands favorite Irish bar Hooligans who also provide outdoor seating. Park your golf cart on Catawba Avenue and check out Reel Bar, Mossbacks, and Fishbowl all of which serve appetizers and great food. 

Looking for the island’s fine dining options? The Boardwalks famous lobster bisque is to die for. Also try The Goat and their famous Goat soup while you enjoy a strong German beer from Biergarten which is right next door. Need a late snack? Order a pizza from Cameo Pizza. They deliver all over the island and late into the night!