Local News
The two-story bar and restaurant, which officially opened in 2018, was engulfed in flames and billowing smoke Saturday.
July 26, 2026 | 10:25 AM
1 minute to read
The Dive, a New Hampshire bar and restaurant located on Lake Winnipesaukee, suffered a devastating fire Saturday.
Images and videos posted on social media showed smoke billowing from the floating lakeside building, which was engulfed in flames. The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed on X that no injuries were reported, but the cause of the fire has not yet been revealed.
“Today has been the hardest day in our journey. Watching The Dive burn was absolutely heartbreaking, and we are devastated by this loss,” the restaurant’s owners said on Facebook. “What matters most, though, is that every single person made it off safely. For that, we are incredibly grateful.”
Jamie Merriam, an entrepreneur and commercial diver, and Betsy Sullivan, a stay-at-home mom and former corporate recruiter, met in 2016 over a common love of boating and being on the water, according to the restaurant’s website. Together, they created The Dive, a two-story bar and restaurant which officially opened in July 2018.
Photos taken in the aftermath of the blaze show the restaurant to be completely wrecked. The owners have not yet confirmed whether or not The Dive will relocate or reopen, but they thanked the firefighters and Good Samaritans who jumped into action and helped prevent any injuries.
“The Dive may be gone, but the amazing community around it is stronger than ever and the memories and the wonderful people & friends we have met through these 9 years we will always cherish,” the restaurant’s owners said. “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
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