Smokey Bones Closes Locations Amid Bankruptcy Woes
Smokey Bones has quietly shut down its Colony, New York, location as of April 28. This decision is part of a broader trend of closures nationwide, coinciding with its parent company, FAT Brands Inc., filing for bankruptcy earlier this year.
Employees were caught off guard by the abrupt closure, learning about it on the same day. Reports show this lack of warning was a common theme across different locations, as employees across various states received last-minute notifications.
On the same day, multiple restaurants in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Rhode Island also ceased operations. Many workers indicated they found out that morning that they would no longer be working there.
A notice on the Warwick, Rhode Island branch stated the store had closed and expressed regret over the sudden announcement.
This rapid closure, affecting not just the Colony location but also others in Michigan and Pennsylvania, signifies a troubling turn for the once-thriving chain.
Previously, there were promises that business would continue as usual during the restructuring process. However, Smokey Bones’ website now lists all stores as closed on various days, leading to uncertainty about the chain’s future.
FAT Brands Inc. and its subsidiary, Twin Hospitality Group Inc., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on January 26, aiming to restructure their debts while keeping dining services active.
According to a statement from the company, the goal was to streamline operations for better value and support growth. They assured that during the Chapter 11 process, each brand would continue to deliver a unique guest experience.
Nonetheless, the series of unexpected closures paints a different picture, indicating rapid downsizing rather than the stabilization that was promised.
Smokey Bones began in Orlando, Florida, in 1999 as a BBQ sports bar and grew into a casual dining chain celebrated for its hickory-smoked meats. Initially, it expanded to around 130 locations but has since faced a steady decline.
As of 2025, the number of locations has dwindled to 26 from about 60, presenting ongoing challenges for the chain as it navigates bankruptcy and attempts to survive in a tough economic landscape.
