Murrells Inlet, January 22, 2026
A long-standing property in Murrells Inlet will soon transform into Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill, blending Mexican, Caribbean, and Latin cuisine with fresh seafood. This initiative, led by local restaurateurs, reflects the entrepreneurial spirit in South Carolina and aims to foster economic growth by creating jobs and enhancing the area’s appeal for tourists and residents alike.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What new restaurant is opening in Murrells Inlet?
Announcing Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill, a new culinary venture set to open this summer at a prime Murrells Inlet location.
Who is behind this new restaurant concept?
This establishment is a collaborative effort by experienced local restaurateurs Zach Baker (Neal and Pam’s) and Salvador Ibarra (El Cerro Grande).
What kind of food can diners expect at Sloppy Jose’s?
Prepare for a diverse menu blending Mexican, Caribbean, and Latin influences with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, including ceviche, traditional dishes, and steaks.
Where exactly is Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill located, and what was there before?
Find Sloppy Jose’s at 4139 U.S. 17 Business along the scenic Marsh Walk, occupying the building that previously housed Player 1UP (an arcade-eatery).
How will this new business impact the local economy?
Expect this new venture to fuel local economic growth by creating new job opportunities and enhancing Murrells Inlet’s appeal as a vibrant tourist and dining destination.
Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet Arcade Reimagined: New Cantina Fuels Local Growth
A prime Murrells Inlet location, once home to an arcade-eatery, is set to welcome a vibrant new culinary venture this summer, showcasing the spirit of local entrepreneurship and contributing to the area’s continued economic vitality.
The Grand Strand, a region synonymous with dynamic commerce and spirited innovation, is witnessing yet another example of entrepreneurial determination in Murrells Inlet. The transformation of a long-standing commercial property into a promising new restaurant concept highlights the resilience and forward-thinking nature of South Carolina entrepreneurs. This development underscores how private investment and a keen understanding of local demand can lead to exciting revitalization projects, fostering robust economic growth within communities.
For months, residents and visitors alike have observed renovations at a familiar Murrells Inlet building, sparking curiosity about its next chapter. The unveiling of the new establishment confirms the enduring allure of the area for business ventures, reflecting a positive climate for those willing to invest and innovate. Such initiatives are crucial drivers of local economies, creating jobs and enhancing the diverse offerings that make the Myrtle Beach area a unique destination for both residents and tourists.
A Fresh Culinary Vision for the Marsh Walk
The highly anticipated new establishment taking root in Murrells Inlet is Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill. This fresh culinary concept is positioned at 4139 U.S. 17 Business, offering a prime location along the scenic Marsh Walk.
Sloppy Jose’s is the collaborative effort of two experienced local restaurateurs: Zach Baker, known for Neal and Pam’s, and Salvador Ibarra, associated with El Cerro Grande. This partnership brings together seasoned expertise to introduce a distinctive dining experience to the Murrells Inlet scene.
The menu at Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill is designed to offer a diverse array of flavors, blending Mexican, Caribbean, and Latin influences with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Diners can anticipate offerings such as ceviche, traditional Mexican dishes, steaks, and an assortment of small plates. Adding to the family-friendly appeal, the new venture will retain the existing pirate ship playground and will also feature Little Burros Churros, providing a sweet treat option for guests.
From Arcades to Artisanal Flavors: The Evolution of a Landmark
The building now home to Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill has a history of adapting to changing market preferences. It previously housed Player 1UP, an arcade-themed eatery that operated from 2022 until its closure in March 2025. Player 1UP offered billiards, classic arcade games like Pac-Man and pinball, air hockey, and a rooftop bar. Before Player 1UP, the 7,000-square-foot building was occupied by Milardo’s Pizzeria.
The transition from an arcade and pizzeria to a themed cantina exemplifies the dynamic nature of commercial real estate and the entrepreneurial drive to meet evolving consumer demands. Ongoing renovations have been underway to prepare the property for its new identity as a restaurant, signaling a significant investment in revitalizing the space for its next chapter. This cycle of adaptation and renewal is a hallmark of the Myrtle Beach small business community, where owners continuously seek innovative ways to serve the growing populace and tourist base.
Fueling Economic Vibrancy in the Grand Strand
The opening of a new business like Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill directly contributes to the economic growth of Murrells Inlet and the wider Myrtle Beach area. Such ventures create new job opportunities, from kitchen staff and servers to management and support roles, providing valuable employment for local residents. Furthermore, new dining options enhance the area’s appeal as a tourist destination, encouraging more visitors and extending their stays, which in turn benefits other local businesses.
South Carolina has demonstrated a positive trend in business openings. Between March 2020 and March 2021, the state saw 15,709 establishments open, resulting in a net increase of 3,785 businesses. Small businesses were significant contributors to this growth, accounting for 14,969 of these openings. This robust environment supports entrepreneurial initiatives across the state, including the vibrant Myrtle Beach SC business landscape. The growth of small business employment in South Carolina from 1995 to 2019 outpaced the national rate, increasing by 28.2 percent.
Horry County, where Murrells Inlet is located, is particularly reliant on small businesses, with 94% of all businesses in the county falling into this category. These enterprises are often the backbone of local economies, starting as home occupations and growing into thriving operations that require commercial space. The City of Myrtle Beach itself actively works to facilitate revitalization, focusing on its Central Business District through actions like promoting opportunity zones, enhancing public infrastructure, and creating economic incentive programs. These efforts strengthen partnerships with the Myrtle Beach small business community and private investors.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Driving Coastal Carolina
The partnership between Zach Baker and Salvador Ibarra in launching Sloppy Jose’s exemplifies the strong entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in Coastal South Carolina. These are individuals who identify market opportunities, leverage their existing successes, and commit private capital to bring new concepts to life. Their investment in the Murrells Inlet property not only transforms a commercial space but also signals confidence in the local economy and its potential for continued expansion.
The Myrtle Beach area is home to a thriving network of technology startups and entrepreneurs, supported by resources such as the HTC Aspire Hub, which offers flexible workspaces, mentorship, and community-driven programs to foster an innovation economy. This environment encourages the launch and scaling of businesses, cementing the region’s reputation as a hub for innovation. Economic development efforts throughout Horry County focus on attracting, retaining, and growing sustainable businesses that create jobs, uniting public and private sectors to diversify the economy. South Carolina as a state was ranked second overall in Area Development Magazine’s 2024 “Top States for Doing Business,” noting strong performance in areas like available real estate, business incentive programs, and speed of permitting.
Key Features of Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill | Local |
| Location | 4139 U.S. 17 Business, along the Marsh Walk, Murrells Inlet | Local |
| Owners | Zach Baker (Neal and Pam’s), Salvador Ibarra (El Cerro Grande) | Local |
| Cuisine Style | Mexican, Caribbean, Latin flavors with fresh seafood focus | Local |
| Key Menu Items | Ceviche, Mexican dishes, steaks, small plates | Local |
| Additional Offerings | Little Burros Churros, retained pirate ship playground | Local |
| Former Occupant | Player 1UP (arcade-eatery) | Local |
| Anticipated Opening | Summer 2025 | Local |
The introduction of Sloppy Jose’s Cantina & Seafood Grill represents a positive stride for Murrells Inlet, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurial innovation and local investment that fuels the Grand Strand’s vibrant economy. This new establishment promises to enrich the dining landscape, create job opportunities, and attract more visitors to the beloved Marsh Walk area, further solidifying the region’s appeal.
The sustained efforts of South Carolina entrepreneurs and local business leaders continue to shape a dynamic environment where growth is not just a possibility, but a consistent reality. We encourage everyone to support local businesses, embrace new ventures, and actively participate in the ongoing success story of our community. Stay engaged with HEREmyrtlebeach.com for more updates on the dynamic Myrtle Beach SC business landscape and opportunities for local economic growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting Incident in Myrtle Beach Involves Juveniles
Bourbon 101 Class Promotes Local Engagement in Myrtle Beach
SC Businesses in 2026: Innovation, Opportunity, & Growth
Local Restaurateurs Drive Innovation with New Angell Bros. Bar + Grill Location
17th Annual Soup Off Celebrates Community Spirit
Local Visionary Chef Elevates Myrtle Beach’s Culinary Scene
Myrtle Beach Restaurants Propel Local Economy with Culinary Celebration
Conway Welcomes Popular SC Eatery: A New Chapter for Local Dining and Revitalization
Man Faces Charges for Attempted Murder in Murrells Inlet
Experience the Grand Strand: Your Guide to Myrtle Beach Events
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.
