The Chocolate Moose Ely offers an inviting culinary experience that seamlessly blends hearty comfort food with modern American classics. Nestled in the heart of Ely, Minnesota, this beloved spot has become a local favorite for its warm ambiance, friendly service, and an extensive menu that caters to diverse palates.
Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a fresh salad, or a decadent dessert, The Chocolate Moose Ely promises quality ingredients and expertly crafted dishes that keep patrons coming back time and again.
The menu balances traditional flavors with creative twists, ensuring that every visit feels both familiar and exciting.
From breakfast through dinner, The Chocolate Moose Ely delivers thoughtfully prepared meals that reflect a commitment to both taste and presentation. The restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhances the authenticity of each dish, while the vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for family dinners, casual outings, or special occasions.
Exploring the menu reveals an impressive variety of options, including vegetarian-friendly dishes, savory sandwiches, and indulgent desserts. This diversity speaks to the restaurant’s dedication to accommodating various dietary preferences without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
With a reputation for friendly staff and a warm, rustic setting, The Chocolate Moose Ely is more than just a place to eat; it’s a community gathering spot where guests can enjoy memorable meals and excellent company.
The carefully curated menu reflects this ethos, offering something for everyone, whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal. Each section of the menu is thoughtfully designed to showcase the best of what this charming eatery has to offer.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at The Chocolate Moose Ely sets the perfect tone for the meal, featuring a variety of flavorful and shareable dishes. Ideal for igniting your appetite, these starters are crafted to complement the main courses without overwhelming the palate.
Freshness and creativity define the appetizers, with options ranging from classic favorites to inventive options that showcase local ingredients. Whether you prefer something light and crisp or richly indulgent, the menu caters to all cravings.
Popular among guests are the crispy calamari and the signature Moose Nachos, which combine a delightful mix of textures and spices.
Many appetizers are designed to pair well with the restaurant’s extensive drink menu, including craft beers and specialty cocktails. This thoughtful pairing enhances the overall dining experience, encouraging guests to savor each bite alongside a perfectly matched beverage.
- Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
- Moose Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, and house-made salsa.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with a blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and served warm with toasted pita bread.
Appetizer Highlights
The appetizer menu is designed to accommodate both small and large groups, encouraging sharing and communal enjoyment. Many items can be customized with additional toppings or spice levels to suit personal preferences.
“Our appetizers are the perfect introduction to the rich flavors and quality ingredients that define every dish at The Chocolate Moose Ely.”
Soups and Salads
Soups and salads are thoughtfully prepared to provide both nourishment and flavor, making them excellent choices for lighter meals or starters. Each offering emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and balanced seasoning.
The soup selections often highlight local produce and traditional recipes, with a rotating menu to reflect seasonal availability. Salads offer a range of textures and tastes, from crisp greens to roasted vegetables, dressed with house-made vinaigrettes and dressings that elevate the experience.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are plentiful in this section, ensuring that dietary needs are carefully considered without compromising on taste or presentation. The salads can be easily supplemented with protein options like grilled chicken or salmon for a more robust meal.
- Classic French Onion Soup: Topped with melted Swiss cheese and toasted baguette slices.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens with cranberries, candied pecans, goat cheese, and apple cider vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Soup of the Day: A rotating choice featuring seasonal ingredients and chef’s specialties.
Comparing Salad Dressings
| Dressing | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Apple Cider Vinaigrette | Sweet and tangy with a hint of spice | Harvest Salad, Roasted Vegetables |
| Caesar Dressing | Creamy, garlicky, with a touch of anchovy | Caesar Salad, Grilled Chicken |
| Ranch | Rich, herbaceous, and cooling | Fresh Greens, Crispy Chicken Tenders |
Burgers and Sandwiches
The Chocolate Moose Ely is renowned for its hearty and carefully crafted burgers and sandwiches. This section showcases robust flavors and generous portions, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Each burger is made with freshly ground beef and cooked to order, ensuring optimal juiciness and flavor. Sandwiches offer creative combinations of meats, cheeses, and condiments, often served on fresh-baked breads that add texture and depth.
Customization options allow diners to tailor their meals with additional toppings, sauces, and side choices. The menu also features vegetarian alternatives, such as a black bean burger, to satisfy a wider range of tastes.
- The Moose Burger: A half-pound beef patty, cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and Moose sauce on a toasted bun.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slow-cooked pork with tangy BBQ sauce and coleslaw.
- Veggie Black Bean Burger: Made with a blend of black beans, spices, and topped with avocado.
- Turkey Club: Roasted turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on multigrain bread.
Recommended Sides
The burger and sandwich selections come with a variety of side options, allowing guests to customize their meal further. Popular sides include crispy fries, onion rings, and fresh-cut coleslaw.
“Our burgers are crafted with care and served with sides that bring out the best in every bite.”
Entrees and Main Courses
For those seeking a full meal experience, the entrees at The Chocolate Moose Ely offer a diverse range of dishes that highlight American classics alongside innovative recipes. Each entree promises a balance of flavors and generous portions.
The menu features everything from perfectly grilled steaks to comfort food staples such as meatloaf and pot roast. Vegetarian options are also available, featuring seasonal vegetables and hearty grains to satisfy without meat.
Preparation methods focus on bringing out the natural flavors of each ingredient, enhanced by thoughtfully paired sides and sauces. The attention to detail in presentation ensures that every plate arriving at the table is visually appealing as well as delicious.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: 12 oz steak seasoned and grilled to order, served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
- Classic Meatloaf: Oven-baked with a savory tomato glaze, accompanied by green beans and roasted potatoes.
- Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with wild rice, mushrooms, and cheese, topped with marinara sauce.
- Pan-Seared Salmon: Served with lemon butter sauce, wild rice pilaf, and asparagus.
Entree Cooking Styles
| Dish | Cooking Style | Flavor Notes |
| Ribeye Steak | Grilled | Smoky, juicy, with a charred crust |
| Meatloaf | Baked | Rich, savory, with a tangy glaze |
| Stuffed Peppers | Baked | Earthy, cheesy, with a tomato tang |
| Salmon | Pan-Seared | Buttery, citrusy, tender |
Breakfast and Brunch
The Chocolate Moose Ely offers a delightful breakfast and brunch menu, perfect for starting the day with hearty and flavorful options. This section features a balance of traditional morning fare alongside creative dishes that elevate the experience.
From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, the breakfast menu is designed to appeal to early risers and late sleepers alike. Fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation ensure that every dish is satisfying and vibrant.
Seasonal specialties and daily specials add variety, encouraging guests to explore new dishes with each visit. The brunch offerings often include unique twists on classics, such as stuffed French toast or specialty Benedicts.
- Classic Pancakes: Served with maple syrup and butter, with optional fruit toppings.
- Western Omelet: Eggs filled with ham, peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese.
- Stuffed French Toast: Thick slices filled with cream cheese and berries.
- Breakfast Burrito: Eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Brunch Beverage Options
Complement your meal with a variety of beverage choices, including fresh-squeezed juices, specialty coffees, and a selection of mimosas and Bloody Marys for those who enjoy a spirited start.
“Our breakfast menu is crafted to energize your day with fresh, wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal at The Chocolate Moose Ely is complete without sampling one of the delectable desserts. The sweet treats menu offers a variety of indulgent options, perfect for satisfying every sweet tooth.
From rich chocolate creations to lighter fruit-based desserts, there is something to please every preference. Each dessert is crafted with the same attention to quality and presentation as the main courses.
Many desserts are made in-house, ensuring freshness and a homemade feel. Seasonal specialties highlight local fruits and flavors, keeping the offerings exciting and current throughout the year.
- Chocolate Moose Cake: The signature dessert, a layered chocolate cake with creamy frosting.
- Apple Crisp: Warm apples baked with a cinnamon oat topping, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Cheesecake: Classic New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.
- Ice Cream Sundae: Vanilla ice cream topped with hot fudge, nuts, and whipped cream.
Popular Dessert Pairings
| Dessert | Suggested Beverage Pairing | Flavor Complement |
| Chocolate Moose Cake | Espresso or Stout Beer | Rich, bittersweet, and creamy |
| Apple Crisp | Cinnamon Tea or Apple Cider | Warm, spiced, and fruity |
| Cheesecake | Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine | Buttery, smooth, and slightly tangy |
| Ice Cream Sundae | Milkshake or Sweet Dessert Wine | Cold, creamy, and nutty |
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at The Chocolate Moose Ely complements its food offerings with a diverse range of options, from crafted cocktails to non-alcoholic drinks. This selection enhances every dining experience, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner.
The cocktail list features imaginative blends using fresh ingredients and quality spirits, often incorporating local flavors to create unique drinks. Classic cocktails are also available, crafted with precision and flair.
Non-alcoholic options include specialty coffees, teas, and house-made lemonades, catering to all tastes and preferences. The beverage program is designed to pair well with menu items, elevating the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Moose Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime, and a hint of mint.
- Berry Smash: Mixed berries muddled with bourbon and a splash of soda.
- House Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemons with a touch of sweetness.
- Espresso Martini: Coffee-infused cocktail with vodka and coffee liqueur.
Signature Cocktail Ingredients
Many cocktails feature locally sourced ingredients such as fresh berries, herbs, and artisanal spirits. This focus on regional flavors adds a distinct character that reflects the spirit of Ely itself.
“A perfect meal deserves a perfect drink, and our beverage menu is crafted to do just that.”
Conclusion
The Chocolate Moose Ely offers a menu that is as diverse and inviting as the community it serves. Each section reflects a dedication to quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction, making it a standout destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience.
From appetizers that awaken the palate to desserts that provide a sweet finale, the menu is thoughtfully balanced to accommodate a wide range of tastes and preferences.
What truly sets The Chocolate Moose Ely apart is the seamless integration of fresh, local ingredients with expert culinary techniques. This combination results in dishes that are both comforting and exciting, offering something new with every visit.
The warm, rustic atmosphere paired with attentive service further enhances the overall experience, inviting guests to relax and enjoy their time.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a leisurely brunch, or a celebratory dinner, The Chocolate Moose Ely promises a menu that satisfies and delights. Its commitment to flavor, presentation, and hospitality ensures that every meal is not just food on a plate but a reflection of Ely’s vibrant culinary spirit.
With so many delicious options to explore, it’s clear why patrons keep returning to enjoy the rich flavors and welcoming environment of The Chocolate Moose Ely.
