Bar hopping in Battle Creek? You'll have two less stops as a pair of longtime establishments have locked up and third favorite may be moving.

Moonraker West and Pasche's Lakeside, geographically within a quarter mile of each other on Columbia Ave, have announced closings almost simultaneously. Both bars had a long history in the Cereal City and were local favorites.

Moonraker West

Moonraker West began as a much smaller, cozy joint called the Hunt Club. Many remember the rustic decor, the horseshoe-shaped bar and the Aristocrat sandwiches that were trademarks. The original building was demolished and a much larger restaurant/sports bar opened in 2012 as a satellite to the Moonraker restaurant on Beadle Lake Road.

Pasche's Lakeside

Pasche's Lakeside is remembered as the Waterfront. (Or, sometimes not altogether remembered, if you know what I mean.) Its nautical theme was fitting as an entire wall of windows looks out over Goguac Lake. The back deck was perfect to enjoy great food and listen to the bands on the tiny stage perched on the edge of the lake. Weekend DJ's and bartenders with a heavy pour made the indoors fun on weekends. The property had a brief run as H2O, then Pasche's opened in November of 2015, a second location supporting Pasche's Seafood Kitchen near Firekeeper's Casino.

Future Plans?

If, like me, you always loved the condos next door to Waterfront/H2O/Pasche's, it looks like you may have the chance to own one. Word is the building will be demolished and more lakeside housing will be developed.

It's only speculation at this point, but Facebook is saying that Friends & Co will be moving into the Moonraker West space as they abdicate their current location, just West on Columbia Ave.

Meanwhile, the original Moonraker and Pasche's restaurants remain open for food, drink, mirth and merriment.

 

Bonus Video: See Inside the Clock tower of the Battle Creek First United Methodist Church

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