Lowcountry Tastes: Moe's Southwest Grill

The greeting heard when you enter the Southwest Grill chain has become something of a cultural catchphrase, and, as such, people seem to love it (it always makes me giggle; surely I'm not alone in this) or hate it (those behind the line who are compelled to say it to everyone who comes in, possibly on penalty of death).

I discovered Moe's a few years back and have happily analyzed the enthusiasm with which the salutation is delivered in at least three states. Though the energy level of the welcome might not be consistent, the food is -- and that's what makes Moe's a good value. With prices comparable to or only slightly higher than greasy major fast food franchises, Moe's reliably delivers generous portions of fresh, flavorful food in a colorful, friendly atmosphere.

While I've heard occasional complaints that it's not "authentic," there certainly are enough of those restaurants around here if that's the experience you seek.

There are no exotic Tex-Mex specialties at Moe's, just the usual favorites: fajitas, nachos, tacos, quesadillas and giant burritos.

On Wednesdays, the Bluffton location offers a special with a burrito and a 22-ounce drink for $5.

The cutely-named dishes are made to order on a Subway-style line so you can customize your choices.

On the Saturday after New Year's Day, I tried to stick to one of my resolutions by ordering the Close Talker salad, then completely undermined that resolution by making it a meal (which meant I got a gorgeous scoop of guacamole on the salad and a drink) and plowing through the basket of free chips that comes with every order.

Oh, well. Maybe the cilantro and fresh jalapenos counteracted the carbs?

Six salsas are available at a salsa bar for the chips or entrees. The range of temperatures will suit most tastes.

Bottles, pints and pitchers of beer and "Moe-ritas" also are available. And if you, too, already have violated a weight-loss resolution, be sure to try Moe's big, tasty cookies, which are three for just $1.

THE RECEIPT:

Close Talker Meal: $8.39

Tax: $.75

Tip: $1

Total: $10.14