Kevin Smith and a team behind other nostalgic pop-up restaurants brought Mooby’s to Chicago. Through Nov. 6, Mooby’s takes over St. Lou’s Assembly on Chicago’s Near West Side.

© MoobysPopUp.com

The stint in Chicago follows successful runs in West Hollywood and Smith’s hometown of Redbank, New Jersey, for Mooby’s, the fictional restaurant seen in Smith’s films. Filmmaker Smith partners with the team responsible for other Chicago pop-ups including Saved by the Max (from Saved by the Bell) and The Peach Pit (from Beverly Hills 90210).

© MoobysPopUp.com

© MoobysPopUp.com

Created by Smith, Mooby, an anthropomorphic cow, is a fictional children’s television character first seen in the 1999 film Dogma. The fast-food restaurant Mooby’s also debuted in Dogma and reappeared in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back and Clerks II.

The Chicago Mooby’s is a nostalgic romp, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in the experience while maintaining social distancing. All guests receive a pre-ordered “Mooby’s Pick-Up Experience,” featuring several meal options. Of course, there is also plenty of merchandise available.

© MoobysPopUp.com

One of the highlights is the signature Mooby’s-branded beers. Marz Community Brewing made Sparkling Lager and Floridaweiss for the Chicago pop-up.

Mooby’s staffers take extra care to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. All necessary precautions are taken, without distracting from the fun experience.

The Chicago version of Mooby’s has been tremendously popular in the first couple days, and the rest of the stay looks just as promising. While no announcements have been made for future cities, the plan is for more to happen.

— John Wroblewski, online writer