Bucky Moonshine’s in Deep Ellum serves up some of the boldest Southern food in Dallas, no compromises. At the heart of the menu is the catfish—fried or blackened, layered with crawfish cream sauce or simply paired with slaw and a wedge of lemon. The fried version is crisp without being greasy, the fillet thick and flaky, and the seasoning leans just enough into the Louisiana pantry without overwhelming the fish itself.
The Catfish Pontchartrain is one of the kitchen’s triumphs. It arrives cloaked in a buttery crawfish sauce that borders on indulgent, spooned over dirty rice that’s smoky, peppery, and laced with bits of ground meat. It’s messy, rich, and deeply satisfying. Those who prefer their fish seared will find the blackened Atchafalaya equally impressive—spice-forward and crusted, but never dry.
The starters set the tone early. Jalapeño hush puppies bring crunch and low heat, while the fried green tomatoes come out hot and sharp with acid, balanced by a creamy remoulade. Crawfish queso isn’t trying to be elegant—it’s molten, chunky, and perfect with chips or just a spoon.
Shrimp and grits lean into the savory side, with cheese-laced grits swimming in a roux-based sauce heavy on andouille, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Cajun fettuccine is unapologetically creamy and dense, with enough sausage and seafood to make it a meal and a half. If you’re still hungry, there’s alligator tail, short ribs, boudin balls—all well-executed, all loud with flavor.
Chef Ivan “Bucky” Pugh is the backbone of the place, both literally and spiritually. A New Orleans native and longtime Dallas chef, Pugh brings the confidence of someone who knows Southern food inside and out but still cooks with affection. He cut his teeth in fine dining before launching his own ventures, and it shows—not in precious plating, but in discipline, pacing, and consistency. You’ll often find him making rounds, greeting guests, and keeping the kitchen sharp.
The restaurant is a tight, loud space filled with mismatched furniture, neon lights, and the occasional live blues set on the patio. It’s warm without being curated, a spot where regulars know the staff by name and first-timers get pulled into the fold over a cold beer and a hot plate. It has the kind of energy that builds slowly as the night wears on—conversations getting louder, tables pushing together, baskets of catfish still flying out at 10 p.m.
Bucky Moonshine’s doesn’t reinvent the wheel—it just makes sure the grease is hot, the flavors are right, and the stories behind the dishes aren’t lost. This isn’t just another Southern restaurant in Dallas. It’s a living extension of Chef Bucky’s own kitchen, loud and proud and full of soul.
Bucky Moonshine 2912 Elm St Dallas, TX 75226
Delicious 👌