A wave of sudden restaurant shutdowns is sweeping across the country, leaving employees scrambling and raising fresh uncertainty about the future of a once-popular BBQ chain.
According to the New York Post, Smokey Bones has begun closing multiple locations with little notice, including a restaurant in Colonie that shut its doors on April 28.
Workers at that location were reportedly told the same day that operations were ending, reflecting a broader pattern seen across several states.
Restaurants in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Rhode Island were also closed on the same day, with employees in multiple locations saying they received word only hours before their shifts.
At a location in Warwick, Rhode Island, a notice posted on the door read, “We regret to announce that this location has permanently closed its doors as of Tuesday, April 28th,” according to local reports.
The closures come amid financial turmoil for the chain’s parent company, FAT Brands Inc., and its operating arm, Twin Hospitality Group Inc., both of which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Jan. 26.
At the time, the company signaled optimism about its restructuring efforts.
“Twin Hospitality plans to use the filings to deleverage the balance sheet, maximize value for its stakeholders, and support the continued growth of its brands,” the company said in a statement.
“Throughout the Chapter 11 process, Twin Hospitality expects the brands will remain open and operating as usual and will continue delivering their signature guest experiences.”
However, the recent shutdowns suggest a different trajectory, with the company rapidly scaling back its operations instead of maintaining them.
Online, Smokey Bones’ website now lists all locations as closed every day of the week, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the brand.
The chain had already begun reducing its footprint months earlier. In September 2025, the company announced it had shut down 15 “underperforming units” as part of an effort to streamline operations and focus on stronger-performing restaurants.
Founded in 1999 by Darden Restaurants, Smokey Bones initially gained traction as a BBQ sports bar concept based in Orlando.
The brand expanded quickly in its early years, eventually reaching about 130 locations nationwide.
Over time, that number steadily declined. By 2025, the chain had already been reduced to 26 locations.
