New York has officially lost the last remaining locations of a longtime national barbecue chain after the company abruptly shut down its final restaurants in the state, marking a complete exit from the market.
The closures were part of a broader nationwide shutdown on April 28, when parent company FAT Brands confirmed that all remaining restaurants had ceased operations. The move follows the company’s January 2026 Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing and ends the brand’s years-long presence in New York.
Smokey Bones leaves New York market
The chain was Smokey Bones, a casual dining barbecue brand that once operated more than 100 restaurants across the country.
Local reports said the company’s final New York restaurants included locations in Colonie and Ronkonkoma. Both locations were listed among the brand’s remaining restaurants before the nationwide closure.
End of a once-growing chain
Founded in 1999, Smokey Bones became known for smoked meats, ribs, burgers and a sports-bar atmosphere. The company expanded rapidly during the 2000s before beginning a long period of contraction.
Like many casual dining chains, the brand faced mounting pressure from inflation, higher labor costs and changing consumer habits. Many diners shifted toward takeout, fast-casual competitors and local independent restaurants.
The company had already reduced its footprint significantly before the final nationwide shutdown.
What it means for New York diners
For New York customers, the closures remove another recognizable chain from the state’s restaurant landscape.
The shutdown also impacts workers at the final locations and leaves vacant restaurant spaces in suburban shopping corridors.
Whether the Smokey Bones name returns through franchising or a restructured concept remains uncertain. For now, the April 28 closures mark the end of the chain’s New York run and a full exit from the Empire State.
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