Murray's Saloon Big Bear review for a lively late night

Local dining coverage describes a long-running pub serving burgers, sandwiches and other American bar food alongside karaoke.

Visitors repeatedly mention the oversized burgers, regulars and dive-bar energy. Noise and variable service are the main drawbacks for diners wanting a conventional meal.

The food

Murray's Saloon and Eatery offers a menu with a variety of American bar food. You can find options like burgers, sandwiches, seafood, appetizers, tacos, and salads. The establishment is known for its named burgers, which include choices such as the Russell Burger, Hawaiian Burger, Jalapeno Bacon Burger, and FireBall Burger. For those who prefer seafood, the menu lists items like fish and chips, wild salmon, crab cakes, calamari, and bacon-wrapped shrimp.

The room

The setting at Murray's Saloon and Eatery provides indoor tables for guests, as well as seating at the bar. The bar itself serves a range of beverages, including draft and bottled beer, wine, cocktails, and shots. Entertainment is a significant aspect of the saloon's atmosphere, with karaoke being a central feature. The venue also provides catering services for private events.

Dining in Big Bear Lake

For a quick lunch, consider Tropicali.

If you are looking for a more polished dinner experience, Peppercorn Grille is a local choice.

Sweet Basil Bistro is suited for those seeking a date night location.

For a special-occasion dinner, Captains Anchorage is another option in Big Bear Lake.

Appetizers and burgers

Murray's Saloon and Eatery offers a selection of appetizers to start your meal. You can choose from tempura-battered zucchini and mushrooms served with ranch, or jalapeño poppers. The poppers are prepared with a filling of blue cheese, cream cheese, and bacon, then wrapped in bacon. For those who enjoy seafood, the bacon-wrapped shrimp is stuffed with blue cheese and jalapeño.

The burger selection at Murray's Saloon and Eatery includes several distinct options. The Russell Burger features Cajun blue cheese, bacon, and avocado. Alternatively, the Hawaiian Burger is prepared with ham, pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and cheddar cheese. For those seeking a spicier option, the spicy crispy chicken sandwich comes with pepper jack cheese and Fireball barbecue sauce.

More menu items and services

Beyond burgers and appetizers, Murray's Saloon and Eatery also serves fish and chips, made with battered cod. For those who prefer a kick, hot wings are available with a choice of Buffalo, barbecue, or Fireball barbecue sauce. The eatery also provides a breakfast menu that includes eggs with a side of ham, bacon, or sausage, accompanied by homemade hash browns.

In addition to dine-in service, Murray's Saloon and Eatery offers catering. This service is available for various events, including weddings, company picnics, and other parties.

Murray's Saloon and Eatery is located at 672 Cottage Ln in Big Bear Lake, California. This spot is approximately 1.5 miles from Snow Summit's main address.

Parking and transit options

In the city of Big Bear Lake, public parking is available in several lots, including those on Bartlett Road, Knickerbocker Road, and Pennsylvania Road. The Alden Lot, situated behind the Dynasty restaurant, is another option. For those looking to avoid driving, the Big Bear trolley offers a free service connecting various points of interest such as grocery stores, restaurants, recreation areas, ski resorts, and The Village. Mountain Transit's Red Line also provides service, linking The Village with areas like Moonridge, Bear Mountain, Snow Summit, Big Bear City, Sugarloaf, and Erwin Lake. These transit vehicles are equipped with wheelchair accessibility and bicycle racks.

Winter driving considerations

The primary routes to Big Bear Lake include State Route 330 via Highland, State Route 38 through Redlands, and State Route 18 from Lucerne Valley. Chain controls on these mountain roads can change quickly. Drivers should always check Caltrans QuickMap or their highway-conditions service before starting their journey. During winter conditions, it is advised that drivers carry traction devices, adhere to posted chain-control signs, and confirm current Caltrans road conditions prior to departure.