News Summary
Burky’s Grill in Myrtle Beach has reopened on May 1, 2025, after a year-long closure due to fire damage. The restaurant has undergone significant renovations and brought back its staff, re-establishing its place as a beloved community staple. Owner Wayne Burkart noted a positive response from locals, who view the reopening as a reunion with a cherished establishment known for its comfort food and nostalgic atmosphere.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Burky’s Grill has officially reopened its doors on May 1, 2025, after being closed for over a year due to significant fire damage that occurred in December 2023. The owner, Wayne Burkart, reported that the restaurant underwent extensive reconstruction, which included new floors, ceilings, seating, and equipment, although the menu continues to offer the beloved staples that have attracted customers for decades.
The reopening has resulted in a strong, positive response from the community, with Burkart noting that business has never been better since the return. Many locals viewed the event as a “tremendous” reunion, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to return to a place that holds cherished memories for them.
Prior to the closure, Burky’s Grill employed 14 individuals who were part of its staff. Since the renovation, Burkart has successfully brought back these employees while also hiring six additional workers, increasing the total workforce to 20. This move has been critical in reinstating the familiar atmosphere and quality of service that regular diners have come to expect.
Community Reaction and Popularity
The restaurant, which was founded in 1983, has established itself as a staple within the Myrtle Beach community. Known for its classic 50s-style aesthetic, Burky’s Grill serves a menu focused on comfort food, including popular items like burgers, hot dogs, and malt shakes. During the grill’s closure, many customers expressed their disappointment and longing for the establishment, indicating a significant emotional connection to the location.
Among the loyal clientele are those who have made it a tradition to gather at Burky’s every Friday at 4 p.m., demonstrating the restaurant’s importance as a social gathering point and an anchor in the community. Burkart emphasizes that Burky’s Grill continues to play a vital role in providing a friendly and nostalgic dining experience for its customers.
Background and Restoration Efforts
Eric Burkart, a veteran of the restaurant industry, has extensive experience dating back to 1973. His career was notably influenced by his mentorship with Wendy’s founder, Dave Thomas. This deep-rooted experience has contributed significantly to the resilience of Burky’s Grill and its willingness to adapt and rebuild following the fire damage.
The fire incident in December 2023 prompted the closure and subsequent reconstruction that lasted over a year and a half. The investment in renovation was substantial, aiming not only to restore the establishment but to enhance the dining experience for all patrons. The meticulous efforts put into the redevelopment have paid off, as seen in the current surge of community interest and patronage since the reopening.
Located at 4001 N. Kings Hwy., Burky’s Grill is now welcoming customers daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., inviting both longtime fans and new visitors to experience a piece of Myrtle Beach’s history. The restaurant’s return is a testament to the community’s resilience and its commitment to maintaining cherished local establishments that continue to foster connections among its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Burky’s Grill Set to Reopen in Myrtle Beach After Year-Long Closure
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- WMBF News
- Google Search: Burky’s Grill Myrtle Beach
- My Horry News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- WBTW News
- Google News: Burky’s Grill
- WFXB News
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
