The Story Behind The Famous Dog Who Inspired An Iconic Restaurant in Massachusetts

You can’t go anywhere on the Cape or the Islands without spotting someone sporting a Black Dog sweatshirt, t-shirt, or hat. The famous Black Dog chain has 20 restaurants, cafes, and stores within the state of Massachusetts and several more sprinkled throughout New England. There are even a few stores in the southern states! But did you know that the inspiration for the Black Dog enterprise was a loyal rescue dog who was named after a character in the book "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson?

The story behind the Black Dog phenomenon is an interesting one that dates back to 1967. One day, Captain Robert Douglas was sailing his handcrafted boat, the Shenandoah, to the island of Martha’s Vineyard.

“Black Dog,” a Boxer/Black Lab mix, decided to hitch a ride and accompany Douglas on his seaside voyage. This surprise guest soon became man’s best friend and a constant companion on the Captain’s sailboat.

After experiencing a dreadful meal on a cold day two years later, Captain Douglas decided that what the Vineyard needed was a quality, year-round restaurant. He started to sketch his ideas on a stack of napkins.

With the help and input from local islanders, Captain Douglas turned his napkin sketches into a beautiful, waterfront restaurant. He completed the Black Dog Tavern in 1971 and named the restaurant after his favorite sailing companion.

In designing the restaurant, Captain Douglas created a warm, friendly space that is laid-back and fun.

The tavern overlooks the Vineyard Haven Harbor and is the perfect spot to enjoy a great breakfast, a cup of clam chowder, or a delicious cocktail.

There are also three Black Dog Cafes located on the Vineyard and another in nearby Falmouth.

The cafes serve great pastries, sandwiches, soups, and sweet treats.

There is no shortage of Black Dog merchandise to choose from, especially when you visit one of the Black Dog Country Stores.

Apparel includes shirts, hats, onesies, and socks. There are also housewares such as totes, mugs, and blankets.

The famous pup even has his own brand of wine, mixers, canned cocktails, and rum!

And, of course, there are a lot of fun items for your canine companions.

Toys, raincoats, bones, and leashes are just a few of the canine items that you can find at the Black Dog stores.

Have you eaten at The Black Dog Tavern or visited one of its country stores? If so, please let us know all about it. For more information about The Black Dog restaurants, stores, and merchandise, please visit their official website. Information about the tavern can also be found on the Black Dog Tavern Facebook page.

If you are planning a visit to Martha's Vineyard, consider staying at the Harbor View Hotel.