The Moonshine Café: A Beloved Oakville Venue Begins a New Chapter
- Stevie Connor
- 43 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Two years have passed since the music world lost one of its quiet giants, John Marlatt, founder of The Moonshine Café in Oakville, Ontario. And yet, in so many ways, he is still here in the echoes of heartfelt lyrics, in the warmth of a stage light, in the hush that falls over a room just before the first chord is struck.
John wasn’t just a venue owner. He was a champion of independent artists, a tireless supporter of live music, and the kind of host who made everyone, artist and audience alike, feel like they were home. Alongside his beloved Jane Mackay, he turned a small corner of Oakville into one of Canada’s most respected listening rooms.
Since opening its doors in 2006 at 137 Kerr Street, The Moonshine Café became more than a venue. It was a sanctuary for singer-songwriters, roots musicians, folk storytellers, blues belters, and the countless fans who came to listen. Nights there felt like magic, Dave Gunning holding a room silent with a story-song, Samantha Martin setting the stage ablaze with soul, Stephen Fearing weaving poetry into melody, Andy White bringing Belfast wit and wisdom, Mike Biggar belting gospel-tinged roots with a grin, and yes, even the legendary Ron Hynes, the man of a thousand songs, singing as if each one were his last.
And always, John was there, making sure the sound was right, the artist felt respected, and the audience had their favourite seat waiting. Together, John and Jane built something rare and real at The Moonshine, a space where music mattered, where people listened, and where friendships were forged.
Now, a new era is about to begin. Out of the ashes, the phoenix rises.
On Friday, September 12th 2025, The Moonshine Café reopened its doors just up the road at 568 Kerr, in the Oakville Commons mall at the corner of Kerr and Speers. With better parking and public transit access, the venue will be more welcoming than ever for both artists and audiences. The move promises not just a continuation, but a renewal, a chance to take everything we loved about The Moonshine and build it into something even more vibrant.
Longtime friend and supporter Mike Wharton has stepped in as the new owner and general manager, carrying forward John and Jane’s vision with fresh energy. His commitment is clear: the new Moonshine will hold tight to the values that made it legendary, no TVs, respect for artists, and a listening-room intimacy, while also expanding what’s possible.
Photo: The old Moonshine sign.
Already, signs of the future are taking shape. The old Moonshine sign now hangs proudly in the window, a beacon to the community that live music is on its way back. Plans are in motion for a revitalized menu, the beloved barbecue with burgers and sausages will return, alongside new offerings designed to make the experience even more inviting.
Behind the scenes, every detail is being tended to with care, ensuring that when the doors open, it will feel both familiar and brand new.
And perhaps most exciting of all is what lies ahead: nights of music that bring us together, stages where new voices will be discovered, and a renewed gathering place where the Oakville music community, and visitors from far beyond, can connect, listen, and celebrate the art of song.
The Moonshine Café’s move is more than a change of address. It’s a promise, that live music still matters, that community endures, and that the spirit John and Jane nurtured will continue to grow in powerful and surprising ways.
We at The Sound Cafe have been honoured to attend so many unforgettable nights at The Moonshine put on by John and Jane. And we look forward with excitement to many more at the new venue, a space infused with the old spirit, alive with new possibility, and ready to carry The Moonshine’s legacy forward into the future.
We wish the new ownership well in the coming months and years ahead, as this next chapter unfolds and The Moonshine Café continues to shine as a beacon for live music in Oakville and beyond.
FOLLOW THE MOONSHINE CAFÉ
Stevie Connor, a Scottish-born polymath of the music scene, is renowned for his versatility across various domains within the industry. Initially destined for football, Stevie's heart found its true calling in music. His multifaceted journey has seen him excel as a musician, composer, recording artist, journalist, and internet radio pioneer.
In 2012, Stevie laid the foundation for Blues and Roots Radio, an online platform that quickly became a global stage for blues, roots, folk, Americana, and Celtic music. His visionary leadership propelled the platform to international acclaim. Not content with just one venture, Stevie expanded his influence in 2020 by founding The Sound Cafe Magazine, a multilingual platform dedicated to artist interviews, album reviews, and music news.
Stevie's impact extends beyond these platforms. His discerning ear and industry acumen have presented opportunities to be selected as a juror for national awards such as the JUNO Awards, the Canadian Folk Music Awards, and the Maple Blues Awards. Through his tireless efforts, he has earned a solid reputation within the music community, garnering respect from peers and artists alike.
Despite his extensive responsibilities, Stevie remains deeply connected to his roots, both musically and geographically. He continues to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the music world, ensuring his influence resonates far beyond any single platform. Stevie's enduring passion and commitment to music make him a true luminary in the industry.
Stevie is a verified journalist on the global PR platform, Muck Rack.
