Charleston, South Carolina, is brimming with fantastic eateries, and if you’re on the hunt for a laid-back spot with seriously delicious food, look no further than Tattooed Moose Johns Island. Originally a downtown Charleston favorite, Tattooed Moose expanded to Johns Island due to popular demand, bringing its renowned pub fare to a new neighborhood. Following in the footsteps of food enthusiasts and local reviewers, we decided to check out this much-loved establishment for ourselves.
Tattooed Moose Johns Island isn’t about pretense; it’s about great food in a relaxed atmosphere. Think of it as your go-to neighborhood pub, but with a menu that goes above and beyond typical bar food. The vibe is casual and welcoming, perfect for a no-fuss lunch or dinner. Inside, you’ll find a comfortable bar area and cozy dining booths and tables. When the Charleston weather is agreeable, the outdoor patio seating is the place to be, offering a pleasant al fresco dining experience.
To kick off our meal, we opted for the wings and the legendary Duck Fat French Fries with gravy. Let’s talk about those fries – they live up to the hype. Fried in duck fat, they are crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive. Adding a touch of aioli elevates them even further, creating a truly indulgent appetizer. The wings were equally impressive. Perfectly crispy, well-sauced, and expertly spiced, the secret, as with the fries, is that delectable duck fat frying method!
Duck Fat Fried French Fries with Gravy
Sandwiches are where Tattooed Moose truly shines. While I’m a loyal fan of their Thanksgiving Sammy (a must-try on another visit!), I decided to venture out and try something new. My dining companion went straight for the Lowcountry Cuban. Packed with ham, pork, cheese, pickles, and a medley of other delicious ingredients, this Cuban sandwich is a flavor explosion that perfectly represents the Lowcountry culinary spirit. It was devoured with enthusiasm and not a crumb was left behind.
For my main course, I chose Mike’s Famous Duck Club. As a self-proclaimed meat lover, this sandwich was calling my name. Featuring succulent duck confit, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and all the classic club fixings, piled high on sweet Hawaiian bread in a triple-decker masterpiece, it was, without exaggeration, one of the best sandwiches I’ve had in recent memory. The combination of flavors and textures was simply outstanding.
Mike's Famous Duck Club Sandwich
During our visit, we had the pleasure of sharing a bit of the Tattooed Moose love. Noticing a group at a nearby table who seemed intrigued by our food photography endeavors, we decided to spread some cheer and gift them a $50 gift card. It turned out to be John, Dan, & Jessika from Theater 99, who were delighted to receive a little help with their bill.
Whether you’re a Johns Island local or just passing through Charleston, Tattooed Moose Johns Island is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious, unpretentious food in a relaxed and friendly setting. From the unforgettable duck fat fries to the mouthwatering sandwiches, Tattooed Moose is sure to become your new favorite haunt.
