From Cobb Vanth’s entrance in Mos Espa to the neon-lit corners of Daiyu, cantinas have always been central to the Star Wars universe. These establishments are more than just watering holes. They're filled with hidden details, Easter eggs, and rich backstories that fans often overlook. Let's take a closer look at some of the most intriguing secrets these cantinas hold.
Chalmun's Spaceport Cantina is More Than a Dive Bar
In A New Hope, the Mos Eisley cantina where Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi meet Han Solo is officially named Chalmun's Spaceport Cantina. This Tatooine establishment was a popular spot for smugglers and bounty hunters to pick up new jobs. But, there's more to this dive bar than meets the eye. The cantina's bartender, Wuher, was not just a grumpy proprietor. Some sources suggest he had dealings with Jabba the Hutt himself.
Interestingly, Wuher's strict policy against droids, stating, "We don't serve their kind here," hints at a deeper hostility toward machines, alluding to the deep tension between organics and droids during the Empire's rule.
Oga's Cantina Holds a Wealth of Lore
Located in Batuu's Black Spire Outpost, Oga's Cantina is a hotspot for smugglers, bounty hunters, and off-worlders. For fans fluent in Aurebesh, the cantina’s code of conduct sign and notice board contain secret messages that reference not just Star Wars films but also hidden details of the Galaxy’s Edge lore. One such message is a tribute to the Sith, hinting at a deeper, darker connection in the cantina’s design.
Additionally, Oga's office is supposedly located behind the women's restroom sign (the bar has no actual restroom inside). There’s also a fun fact about the iconic blue milk served at Oga’s. It’s rumored to be harvested from Banthas on the roof of the establishment, tying it back to Tatooine’s original traditions. These elements add layers of lore that make the Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World even more immersive.
The 'Maclunkey' Moment
In the 2019 4K Ultra HD release of A New Hope – the version of the film that happens to be streaming on Disney+ – a new line of dialogue was added to the iconic confrontation between Han Solo and Greedo, “Maclunkey.” This Huttese phrase, which translates to “this will be the end of you,” was a late addition that sparked predictably intense debate among Star Wars fans.
While some argue it was unnecessary, others see it as a playful nod to the franchise’s long-running tradition of altering scenes. Regardless of where you stand, the inclusion of "Maclunkey" has become an unexpected chapter in “Han Shot First” history.
The Curse of the Mos Eisley Cantina Booth
In the video game Star Wars Outlaws, a mysterious "cursed" booth in the Mos Eisley Cantina is mentioned. This booth, reportedly the site of numerous tragic events and confrontations, adds an eerie layer of history to the cantina.
While this is specific to the game, it draws from the Star Wars universe's portrayal of the cantina as a location where characters’ fates are frequently intertwined (and often changed for the worse). This superstition adds extra intrigue to a place already known across the galaxy for its rough-and-tumble atmosphere.
A Cantina Legacy in Canto Bight
While the Mos Eisley Cantina is the most famous in Star Wars, it’s not the only one worth noting. The cantina in Canto Bight, seen in The Last Jedi, is an upscale, casino-themed bar located on a wealthy planet. What many fans miss is the thematic connection between Canto Bight and the entire Star Wars narrative.
The cantina’s luxury setting and its clientele of high-roller gamblers reflect a theme of excess and moral decay, making it a perfect foil to the gritty cantina on Tatooine. The contrast between the two locations shows the wide range of life forms and cultures in the galaxy, each with their own vices, and none immune from the allure of a glass of spotchka.
From hidden messages in Galaxy’s Edge to the eerie vibe of a cursed booth whose occupants die, Star Wars cantinas are full of secrets that fans often overlook. These establishments have played pivotal roles in the Star Wars saga, offering us a deeper look at minor storylines in the galaxy far, far away. Whether you’re a fan of the original trilogy or the newer films, revisiting these cantinas can offer surprising new perspectives.