Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its rich history and vibrant culinary scene. While fine dining establishments abound, sometimes you crave something more down-to-earth, a place with character and, most importantly, incredibly delicious food. Look no further than Tattooed Moose Charleston. This isn’t just another bar; it’s a beloved local haunt that perfectly embodies the spirit of a dive bar with a surprisingly gourmet menu that has locals and visitors raving.
For those familiar with food television, you might recognize the name “Tattooed Moose” from the popular show “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.” However, even before Guy Fieri shone a spotlight on this Charleston gem, it was already a firm favorite among those in the know. Tattooed Moose isn’t trying to be fancy; it’s authentically itself – a dive bar through and through, but one that elevates bar food to an art form.
Guy Fieri's Hairstyle – Humorous take on Guy Fieri's iconic hairstyle, referencing Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and Tattooed Moose Charleston.
Dive into Decadence: Must-Try Dishes
The menu at Tattooed Moose Charleston is packed with comforting, flavorful dishes that go far beyond typical bar fare. Prepare to be amazed by the creativity and quality of ingredients found in this unassuming spot.
Roasted Garlic and Bleu Cheese Duck Fat Fries
A legendary appetizer, the Roasted Garlic and Bleu Cheese Fries are an absolute must-order. These aren’t your average fries; they are hand-cut and fried in rich duck fat, resulting in an unbelievably crispy and flavorful base. Then, they are generously topped with pungent blue cheese and an entire bulb of roasted confit garlic. This dish is rich, decadent, and utterly addictive – plan for extra gym time afterward!
Roasted Garlic and Bleu Cheese Duck Fat Fries at Tattooed Moose Charleston – A decadent appetizer featuring hand-cut fries, blue cheese, and confit garlic.
The Iconic Duck Club Sandwich
For a truly unforgettable sandwich experience, the Duck Club at Tattooed Moose Charleston is in a league of its own. Imagine a triple-decker masterpiece built with succulent duck confit, crispy apple smoked bacon, and melted smoked cheddar, all layered on sweet Hawaiian bread. Garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato, and red onion complete this symphony of flavors. As one enthusiastic patron exclaimed, “on a scale of 1 to 5, it’s a TWENTY FIVE!” Each sandwich also comes with house-made garlicky dill & spicy sweet green tomato pickles, adding a tangy and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the main dish.
Smoked Chicken BLT and More
Beyond the Duck Club, Tattooed Moose Charleston offers a variety of other enticing options. The Smoked Chicken BLT provides a smoky twist on a classic. House-smoked chicken forms the base, topped with bacon, romaine lettuce, and both sweet & spicy green and ripe red tomatoes, all served on toasted wheat bread. While it might sound like a lighter choice, remember, this is still Tattooed Moose – flavor and indulgence are always at the forefront.
Another standout side is the Bacon Bleu Cheese Slaw. This creamy, not vinegary, slaw is loaded with blue cheese flavor and has a hint of smokiness reminiscent of bacon. It’s so good you might just find yourself taking leftovers home.
Smoked Chicken BLT at Tattooed Moose Charleston – A flavorful twist on a classic BLT with house-smoked chicken and bacon.
Thanksgiving in a Sandwich
For a taste of holiday comfort any time of year, try the Thanksgiving “Leftovers” Sammy. This creative sandwich features fried turkey breast, stuffing, and cranberry mayo on toasted wheat bread, accompanied by a side of duck gravy for dipping. While the Duck Club might be the ultimate favorite for some, this Thanksgiving-inspired creation is a close and delicious second. Even those who are hesitant about cranberries might be converted by the balanced flavors in this unique offering.
Embrace the Dive Bar Vibe
Tattooed Moose Charleston is more than just its food; it’s an experience. It’s a place to relax, enjoy good company, and indulge in seriously delicious food without any pretense. It’s the kind of spot you might not want to frequent every day due to its richness, but it’s definitely worth making time for a visit when you’re in Charleston.
Find Tattooed Moose Charleston at:
1137 Morrison Drive
Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 277-2990
For more information and to explore their menu, you can check out their Zomato listing.