Mitchell - Luna Café

The cafe was built in 1924, two years prior to the establishment of Route 66. It is rumored to have been frequented by gangsters like Al Capone. The Luna operated as a cafe on the main floor, a gambling operation in the basement and a “house of ill repute” upstairs. The neon sign located out front has been restored to its former glory, and displays a cherry made of ruby colored glass to enhance its red glow. It is said that back in the day if the cherry was lit, the girls were in. At one time, the café was a “fine dining establishment” and so expensive that most law-abiding citizens could not afford to eat there.

Luna Café
201 East Chain of Rocks Road
Mitchell, IL 62040
(618) 931-3152