Smokey Bones, a long-standing barbecue chain, is closing locations nationwide, including its West Boca Raton restaurant, which has permanently shut its doors. According to BocaNewsNow, the closures are part of strategic shift by parent company Twin Hospitality Group, a subsidiary of FAT Brands, which acquired the chain when it consisted of 61 locations.
Twin Hospitality is converting select Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks lodges, a concept that has shown stronger performance. Two restaurants have already been converted, with a third expected to open later this year. Twin Peaks locations are reporting average unit volumes of approximately $7.8 million, compared with $3.5 million at Smokey Bones.
The strategic plan involves the closure of 15 underperforming Smokey Bones locations, with 10 already closed and five scheduled to shut by the end of the third fiscal quarter of 2026. Following these optimizations and ongoing conversions, the brand currently operates 31 locations. According to a company press release, the move is expected to improve EBITDA performance and reduce approximately $1.5 million in corporate overhead. While some industry observers have suggested that FAT Brands could consider a full exit from the barbecue sector in the future, the company continues to manage a significant portfolio of active sites.
The Street reports that FAT Brands acquired Smokey Bones in 2023, with operations shifting to Twin Hospitality in 2025. Rising costs for menu items such as steak and brisket have influenced this strategy. With Twin Peaks expanding and Smokey Bones closing locations, analysts note a shift in the company’s focus that reflects changing market conditions and operational pressures.
The former Hooters location in Boca Raton is reportedly being considered as a potential site for a new restaurant, possibly replacing the recently closed Smokey Bones. Industry observers note that casual dining operators like FAT Brands are adapting to changing market conditions, with both menu offerings and restaurant atmosphere influencing business strategies.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to reflect correct store counts and the number of reported closures.
