For those in the know, “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” isn’t just a TV show; it’s a culinary compass. Seeking out Guy Fieri-approved eateries in a new city is practically a rite of passage for food enthusiasts. However, sometimes the best spots are discovered off the beaten path, even before the cameras roll. Long before Guy Fieri graced its doorstep, Tattooed Moose had already captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Charleston locals and savvy visitors alike. This isn’t just another restaurant; Tattooed Moose embodies the spirit of a true dive bar, elevated by a menu that redefines “pub grub” with seriously crave-worthy dishes.
Guy Fieri could really use a hair intervention, pictured in a humorous blog post about Tattooed Moose.
Must-Try Menu Items at Tattooed Moose
Forget everything you think you know about bar food. Tattooed Moose isn’t slinging greasy, forgettable fare. They’re crafting culinary experiences, starting with their legendary Roasted Garlic and Bleu Cheese Fries. Imagine hand-cut fries, crisped to golden perfection in rich duck fat. Then, picture them generously smothered in pungent bleu cheese crumbles and crowned with an entire bulb of roasted confit garlic, soft and sweet. These fries are pure indulgence, a decadent symphony of flavors and textures that are worth every single calorie. Consider them a mandatory order.
A close-up shot of the decadent Garlic and Blue Cheese Duck Fat Fries at Tattooed Moose, showcasing the crispy fries, melted blue cheese, and roasted garlic.
Next up, prepare for sandwich nirvana with the Duck Club. This isn’t your average club sandwich. We’re talking a triple-decker masterpiece featuring succulent duck confit, smoky applewood bacon, and melted smoked cheddar cheese, all layered between slices of sweet Hawaiian bread slathered with garlic aioli. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and thinly sliced red onion add the perfect fresh counterpoint to the richness. As one enthusiastic reviewer declared, “on a scale of 1 to 5, it’s a TWENTY FIVE!” Each sandwich is also accompanied by Tattooed Moose’s signature house-made pickles – garlicky dill and spicy sweet green tomato – adding a tangy, crisp bite to every meal.
For another standout sandwich, the Smoked Chicken BLT offers a unique twist on a classic. They take house-smoked chicken, reminiscent of a gourmet chicken salad, and elevate it with crispy bacon, romaine lettuce, and a vibrant combination of sweet & spicy green and ripe red tomatoes, all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted wheat bread. While chicken salad might conjure images of lighter fare, at Tattooed Moose, flavor reigns supreme, and healthy takes a backseat to delicious. Don’t miss their bacon bleu cheese slaw either, a creamy, smoky side dish where the robust bleu cheese flavor truly shines.
A tempting Smoked Chicken BLT sandwich, emphasizing the smoked chicken, bacon, fresh tomatoes, and lettuce on toasted wheat bread.
Venturing beyond the usual, the Thanksgiving “Leftovers” Sammy is a stroke of genius. Imagine Thanksgiving in a sandwich: fried turkey breast, savory stuffing, and cranberry mayo, all piled high on toasted wheat bread and served with a side of rich duck gravy for dipping. It’s a comforting, flavorful explosion, perfect for those days when you crave holiday flavors any time of year. While the Duck Club might be a top contender, this Thanksgiving creation is a close second, offering a delightful and unique sandwich experience.
The Tattooed Moose Experience: Dive Bar Charm Meets Gourmet Grub
Tattooed Moose is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, be yourself, and enjoy genuinely outstanding food without any pretense. Yes, it’s rich. Yes, it’s indulgent. And no, it’s probably not on any diet plan. But that’s precisely the point. Tattooed Moose is a place to treat yourself, to savor every bite, and to embrace the deliciousness of truly great “dive” cuisine. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best culinary adventures are found in the most unexpected places.
Tattooed Moose
1137 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 277-2990
