About Us
What is a Mooncusser? Essentially, it’s someone who makes their own luck. But if we want to be technical about it…
Definition: A land-based pirate who, on dark nights along dangerous coasts, would demolish any lighthouses or beacons, erect a decoy signal fire in a different, deliberately misleading location, and then, after having induced a shipwreck, plunder the wreckage for treasure.
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Founder
Ben grew up on the East Coast and learned how to shuck oysters during summers spent on Cape Cod. Ben’s love for shellfish and New England cuisine grew as he got to know the ingredients and their place in the ecosystem. While he loves Chicago, if he could pick it up and place it somewhere along the Atlantic, he would!
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Co-Founder
Nick has spent over a decade working as a photographer and cinematographer, and with Mooncussers he takes his knack for creative direction to a cause he deeply cares about: shellfish.
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Co-Founder
Sam has worked in PR & social strategy for hospitality and bridal brands since 2013. She’s helped open hotels and restaurants across the city, worked in luxury weddings all over the world, and has spent the majority of her life simply obsessed with the Chicago food scene—this city is blessed with good food and she’s intent on having it all. After spending a decade+ in the business, Sam decided the only way she could continue to enjoy hospitality (IYKYK) was if she had her own project with her friends—and thus, Mooncussers was born!
Why Mooncussers?
Our combined heritage brings us to Chicago from all over the map—from Eastham, MA, to Palermo, Sicily.
We take two things very seriously: oysters and parties.
We’re here to help you throw a top-notch party, because that’s what life’s all about. You throw the party, we provide the best raw bar experience you’ve had outside of Cape Cod. Our wheelhouse is private events and weddings, dinner parties, and pop-ups. We can’t wait to serve you the very best—our ancestors wouldn’t allow for anything less!