On February 22, 2012, the morning news was filled with video of the still smoldering remains of one of Murrells Inlet’s most beloved restaurants. The Dead Dog Saloon had burned down while stunned locals and the restaurant’s owners looked on in sadness and disbelief. Eighty-three short days later, like a caffeine-fueled Phoenix, the Dog rose from its ashes.

When asked about the remarkable turnaround, Dead Dog co-owner John Campbell was quick to sing the praises of his staff and one local business. “We give most of the credit to A&I [Fire and Water Restoration],” said Campbell. “They not only did the salvage and prep work on the site, they also put in a bid on the rebuild and said they could do it in 90 days. They beat their own estimate.”

The all-new Dead Dog Saloon retains the same charm as its former incarnation, with a few notable upgrades. “The outdoor deck is essentially the same design as before,” said Campbell, “though we raised the ceiling by six to eight feet, which makes it feel a lot bigger. The inside is completely remodeled and flip-flopped, with 17-foot ceilings and a large bar with incredible views. Our goal was to give as many guests as possible a view of the Inlet. From most of the seats you can see all the way to Garden City.”

A bigger stage, upgraded sound system and 40 additional seats have helped the new restaurant grow its business.
The menu has remained essentially the same and may be found the Dead Dog website, along with the entertainment schedule and information on Marshwalk Water Sports, a newly opened jet ski and fishing charter business.

Dead Dog Saloon
4079 U.S. 17 Business
Murrells Inlet, SC (843) 651-0664
deaddogsaloon.com