Have you heard the latest about Smokey Bones closing locations? In 2025, this beloved barbecue chain announced the closure of 15 underperforming restaurants, with 10 already shuttered and the remaining 5 set to close by the end of Q3. The news comes on the heels of a major ownership shift: after Fat Brands acquired Smokey Bones in 2023, the chain merged with Twin Hospitality, which also owns Twin Peaks. Now, as some Smokey Bones locations convert to Twin Peaks sports bars, fans and employees alike are left wondering what’s next for the brand. This in-depth guide explores the reasons behind the Smokey Bones closing locations, the impact on communities and staff, the fate of remaining restaurants, and the business lessons every operator can learn from this high-profile barbecue chain restructuring. Read on for full details on Smokey Bones closing locations, including a breakdown of closures, conversions, and what the future holds for this iconic brand.
Smokey Bones Closing Details
The story of Smokey Bones closing locations began with a September 2025 press release from Twin Hospitality, the new parent company. The announcement confirmed that 15 locations would close out of the original 60-site portfolio inherited from Fat Brands. By the time of the announcement, 10 restaurants had already closed their doors, with the final 5 scheduled to shutter by the end of Q3 2025.
Timeline of Closures and Conversions
The closures were not random. Twin Hospitality conducted a thorough review of the Smokey Bones portfolio, targeting underperforming locations in both urban and suburban markets. While the company has not released a full public list of the affected sites, patterns have emerged: many closures are in regions with declining foot traffic or increased competition from local barbecue joints and national chains like Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.
Conversion to Twin Peaks
A significant part of the restructuring involves converting 19 former Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks sports bars. As of late 2025, two conversions are complete, with a third underway. This strategy allows Twin Hospitality to leverage existing real estate and capitalize on the growing popularity of the Twin Peaks brand, which offers a different dining experience focused on sports, comfort food, and a lively atmosphere.
Current Status Table
| Aspect | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Closures | 15 total (10 done) | By Q3 2025 |
| Conversions | 19 to Twin Peaks | 2 completed, 1 underway |
| Remaining | 26 Smokey Bones open | Positive cash flow |
| Cash Flow | Positive for survivors | Per Twin Hospitality |
Patterns in Smokey Bones Closing Locations
While the company has not published a full list, closures have been concentrated in markets where Smokey Bones faced stiff competition, rising costs, or shifting demographics. Urban locations with high rent and suburban sites with declining traffic were especially vulnerable. The remaining 26 Smokey Bones locations are primarily in regions with strong brand loyalty and consistent sales.
Reasons Behind Closures
Understanding the reasons for Smokey Bones closing locations requires a look at both internal and external pressures facing the chain in 2025.
Financial Pressures and Cost-Cutting
The casual dining sector has faced significant headwinds since the pandemic, and Smokey Bones was no exception. Underperformance at certain locations, combined with rising labor and food costs, made it difficult to maintain profitability across the entire portfolio. Twin Hospitality’s merger plan targeted $1.5 million in annual savings by closing underperforming sites and streamlining operations.
Market Shifts and Competition
The barbecue restaurant segment has become increasingly competitive, with both independent smokehouses and national chains like Dickey’s and Famous Dave’s vying for market share. Post-pandemic recovery has been uneven, with some regions bouncing back faster than others. In areas where Smokey Bones struggled to regain pre-pandemic traffic, closures became inevitable.
Debunking Bankruptcy Rumors
Despite speculation, there are no confirmed reports of Smokey Bones filing for bankruptcy. The closures are part of a strategic restructuring, not a liquidation. Twin Hospitality has emphasized that the remaining locations are profitable and that the brand will continue to operate in select markets.
Strategic Review and Portfolio Optimization
Twin Hospitality’s leadership conducted a comprehensive review of all Smokey Bones locations, focusing on cash flow, local market conditions, and long-term viability. The decision to close 15 locations and convert 19 to Twin Peaks reflects a broader industry trend toward portfolio optimization—focusing resources on high-performing sites and divesting from weaker ones.
Key Factors in Closure Decisions
- Rising labor and food costs, especially in urban markets
- Declining foot traffic in certain suburban and mall-adjacent locations
- Increased competition from both local and national barbecue chains
- Brand repositioning under new ownership, with a focus on profitability and synergy with Twin Peaks
Brand Repositioning and Menu Evolution
As part of the restructuring, Smokey Bones is updating its menu and restaurant design at surviving locations. The goal is to modernize the brand, appeal to a broader audience, and differentiate from competitors. This includes new barbecue offerings, expanded beverage menus, and refreshed interiors.
Impacts on Customers and Employees
The closure of 15 Smokey Bones locations has had a significant impact on both customers and employees.
Customer Reactions and Alternatives
Longtime fans of Smokey Bones have expressed disappointment at losing their local barbecue spot. Many have turned to alternatives like Chili’s BBQ menu, local smokehouses, or other national chains. However, the remaining 26 Smokey Bones locations continue to serve loyal customers, and the company has promised menu updates and improved service at these sites.
Map of Remaining Smokey Bones Locations
A visual map of the 26 surviving Smokey Bones locations is available on the company’s website, helping customers find the nearest open restaurant. The map is regularly updated as conversions and closures are finalized. [Image: “Smokey Bones closing locations map”]
Employee Effects and Support
The closures have resulted in job losses estimated at 500 to 750 positions. Twin Hospitality has stated that affected employees were offered severance packages and, where possible, opportunities to transfer to nearby Twin Peaks locations or other restaurants within the company’s portfolio. Outplacement support and job fairs were also organized in affected markets.
Loyalty Programs and Rewards
One of the biggest questions for customers is the fate of Smokey Bones loyalty programs. According to company statements, existing rewards points can be redeemed at remaining Smokey Bones locations. For sites converting to Twin Peaks, some rewards may be transferable, but details vary by market. Customers are encouraged to check with their local restaurant or the company’s website for the latest information.
Pros and Cons of Loyalty Program Transitions
- Pros: Opportunity to try Twin Peaks, potential for bonus offers during transition, continued rewards at open Smokey Bones locations
- Cons: Loss of local favorite, possible confusion over points transfer, limited menu overlap
Future of Smokey Bones
Despite the closures, Smokey Bones is not disappearing. The brand is focusing on its 26 most profitable locations, with plans for menu innovation, renovations, and enhanced customer experiences.
Remaining Locations and Menu Updates
The surviving Smokey Bones locations are primarily in regions with strong sales and brand loyalty. These restaurants are receiving investments in updated décor, new barbecue menu items, and expanded beverage offerings. The company is also testing new technology for online ordering and delivery to boost convenience.
Growth Potential and Twin Peaks Synergy
With 19 former Smokey Bones locations converting to Twin Peaks, Twin Hospitality is leveraging operational synergies between the two brands. While no further Smokey Bones closing locations are planned at this time, the company will continue to monitor performance and market trends.
Industry Trends and Broader Implications
The Smokey Bones restructuring is part of a larger wave of consolidation in the casual dining sector. Chains like At Home and others have also closed underperforming locations or merged with competitors to survive in a challenging market. The focus is increasingly on profitability, operational efficiency, and adapting to changing consumer preferences.
No Further Closures Planned
Twin Hospitality has stated that, barring unforeseen circumstances, no additional Smokey Bones closing locations are planned for the foreseeable future. The company is committed to supporting the remaining restaurants and investing in their long-term success.
Business Lessons from Smokey Bones Closing Locations
The story of Smokey Bones closing locations offers valuable lessons for restaurant operators and business owners in any industry.
Restructuring Strategies for Chains
- Conduct regular portfolio reviews to identify underperforming sites
- Be willing to close or convert locations that no longer fit the brand’s strategy
- Leverage mergers and acquisitions to gain operational efficiencies
Adaptation Tips for Surviving and Thriving
- Diversify menus to appeal to a broader customer base
- Use data analytics to monitor performance and identify trends early
- Invest in technology for online ordering, delivery, and customer engagement
- Focus on high-cash-flow locations and divest from weaker markets
- Communicate transparently with employees and customers during transitions
Five Actionable Takeaways for Business Owners
- Prioritize Profitability: Regularly assess each location’s financial health and act quickly on underperformance.
- Embrace Change: Be open to mergers, acquisitions, and conversions to stay competitive.
- Leverage Brand Synergy: Use shared resources and cross-promotions to maximize value.
- Invest in Innovation: Update menus, décor, and technology to keep the brand fresh.
- Support Your Team: Offer severance, retraining, and transfer opportunities during restructuring.
FAQ: Smokey Bones Closing Locations
What states are affected by Smokey Bones closing locations?
Smokey Bones closing locations have impacted multiple states, especially those with high concentrations of underperforming restaurants. While the company has not released a full list, closures have been reported in both urban and suburban markets across the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast.
How many Smokey Bones are left after 2025 closures?
After the 2025 closures, 26 Smokey Bones locations remain open, primarily in regions with strong sales and loyal customer bases.
Are there Smokey Bones closing locations near me?
To find out if there are Smokey Bones closing locations near you, visit the official Smokey Bones website or use their location finder tool for the most up-to-date information.
Key Takeaways
- Smokey Bones closing locations in 2025 reduced the chain from 60 to 26 restaurants.
- 15 underperforming sites closed, with 19 converting to Twin Peaks sports bars.
- Closures were driven by financial pressures, market shifts, and strategic review.
- Remaining Smokey Bones locations are profitable and receiving investments.
- The restructuring offers important business lessons on adaptation and portfolio management.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Smokey Bones closing locations in 2025 mark a major shift for the barbecue chain, but the brand is far from gone. With 26 profitable sites, menu updates, and a new partnership with Twin Peaks, Smokey Bones is poised for a fresh chapter. Wondering how to navigate closures or restructuring in your own business? Contact us for expert turnaround advice and support.
