- Attraction: Moonshine Store
- Location: 6017 E 300th Rd, Martinsville, IL 62442
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.moonshineillinois.com
People drive for hours through endless cornfields just to reach a place that technically doesn’t exist on most maps.
Moonshine, Illinois has zero official residents but stands as home to one of the most legendary burger joints in the Midwest.
Located deep in Clark County countryside, the Moonshine Store has been drawing visitors from all 50 states and around the world to try their world-famous Moonshine Burger.
Originally built as a general store in 1912, this weathered building became a culinary destination when Roy Lee and Helen Tuttle purchased it in 1982.
What started as a simple lunch counter for local farmers and oil field workers has evolved into a bucket-list destination that attracts motorcycle rallies, food enthusiasts, and curious travelers willing to navigate winding back roads for an authentic taste of rural Illinois.
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Keep Exploring →The World-Famous Moonburger Experience
The Signature Moonburger: This isn’t your typical gourmet creation – it’s a half-pound smash burger made with nothing but ground beef, no seasonings, rolled into a ball and flattened on the griddle.
The simplicity is what makes it extraordinary. You’ll taste pure, unadulterated beef flavor that’s surprisingly addictive. The double cheeseburger version is especially popular, described by visitors as “inexplicably simple yet delicious”.
Self-Service Setup: The center of the store features a community condiment table where you’ll dress your own burger with the usual fixings.
This DIY approach lets you customize your Moonburger exactly how you want it, from basic ketchup and mustard to fully loaded with pickles, onions, and lettuce.
Limited But Perfect Menu: While the menu is intentionally simple – burgers (plain or cheese), bacon burgers, tenderloin, chicken, and hot dogs – they’ve perfected what they do.
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Discover MoreYou can also grab a bag of chips and a soda to complete your meal. The focus on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than offering endless options is part of the charm.
Lightning-Fast Service: Despite lines that often form even early in the morning, the current owners Lisa and Jackie Tuttle move orders quickly, regularly serving 600-800 burgers on busy Saturdays. Even when there’s a crowd, the efficient system keeps wait times reasonable.
Authentic Country Store Atmosphere
Rustic General Store Vibes: You’ll immediately notice the wooden floors, screen doors, and authentic general store atmosphere that transports you back decades.
The building maintains its old barn character, complete with interesting vintage items to browse while you wait. The unique self-service atmosphere adds to the authentic country experience.
Outdoor Dining Only: There’s no indoor seating – everyone takes their meals to picnic tables outside, regardless of weather.
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Keep Exploring →This setup creates a communal atmosphere where you’ll find yourself dining alongside farmers, bikers, and fellow food adventurers. Even in record-breaking temperatures, people fill the shaded picnic tables.
Historic Building Character: The store is literally the only building in town (besides the outhouse), making it a true one-of-a-kind destination. The seasoned grill and time-worn interior create an ambiance that feels genuinely unchanged from earlier eras.
Practical Considerations
Unique Operating Hours: The grill shuts off at exactly 12:30 PM and the store closes at 1:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. This schedule allows the owners to enjoy their afternoons off, but it means you need to plan accordingly. They’re serious about these hours – if you arrive after 12:30, you’ll only find cold sandwiches.
Honor System Payment: You’ll order at the deli counter, give your name, and pay when you leave – it’s all based on trust. This old-fashioned approach adds to the authentic small-town experience.
Budget-Friendly Pricing: Reviews consistently mention “good food, good price,” making this an affordable adventure. The simple menu means you’re getting excellent value for quality, fresh-cooked burgers without inflated tourist pricing.
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Discover MoreParking and Accessibility: Parking is available in front of the store or in a larger lot across the street. However, be prepared for crowds and think ahead about parking, especially during peak times. The location combines well with trips to see Casey, Illinois’s giant roadside attractions just nine miles away.
Finding the Place: You’ll need good directions or GPS since Moonshine requires “a compass, plat map and a little luck to find”. The beautiful drive through winding back roads and tall corn fields is part of the adventure.
Moonshine Store
📍 6017 E 300th Rd, Martinsville, IL 62442
