Smokey Bones closures are in the spotlight as the popular barbecue restaurant chain undergoes a major restructuring that will significantly reduce its footprint across the United States. The company has confirmed that 15 underperforming locations are either already closed or scheduled to shut down by the end of the third quarter of 2025. This move marks a turning point for the brand, which has been a familiar name in casual dining for years.
The decision comes under the leadership of Twin Hospitality, the parent company overseeing Smokey Bones. As part of its strategy, the company is not only closing restaurants but also converting several locations into its other successful brand, Twin Peaks.
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Why Smokey Bones Is Closing Locations
The closures are part of a broader plan to streamline operations and eliminate unnecessary overhead costs. Twin Hospitality has been evaluating underperforming locations and determined that several Smokey Bones units were no longer financially sustainable. By shutting down weaker restaurants, the company expects to save about $1.5 million in annual corporate expenses while improving overall profitability.
At the same time, locations with potential are being transitioned into Twin Peaks, a concept that has shown far greater returns. Twin Peaks’ average unit volume nearly doubles what Smokey Bones locations were generating, making conversions an attractive option.
Conversions to Twin Peaks
The company has already converted two Smokey Bones restaurants into Twin Peaks, with dramatic results. Average unit sales jumped from around $3.5 million to more than $7.5 million after conversion. A third site is currently in the process of being rebranded, and additional conversions are scheduled in the coming months.
In total, 19 Smokey Bones locations are expected to be converted into Twin Peaks, further shrinking the Smokey Bones brand while strengthening Twin Hospitality’s more profitable concept.
Leadership Changes Fuel New Strategy
Alongside the closures, leadership changes are also shaping the direction of the chain. Smokey Bones recently appointed Ken Brendemihl as its new president. Brendemihl brings more than 25 years of restaurant experience, having held key positions at several well-known dining brands. His task is to guide Smokey Bones into a leaner, more efficient future while ensuring the remaining restaurants maintain a strong presence in their markets.
Kim Boerema, CEO of Twin Hospitality, has emphasized that these changes are not simply about downsizing but about repositioning resources toward higher-performing opportunities. The restructuring is designed to ensure long-term growth, even if it means a smaller Smokey Bones network.
The Remaining Smokey Bones Locations
Before these closures, Smokey Bones operated around 60 restaurants, mostly concentrated in eastern states such as Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Georgia. Following the closures and conversions, the brand will be reduced to just 26 units.
These remaining restaurants still represent an important part of Twin Hospitality’s portfolio, generating about $3 million in annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). Unit volumes vary widely, ranging from $1.3 million to $7.1 million, showing that some locations continue to perform well despite the overall downsizing.
Key Implications of the Closures
The Smokey Bones closures signal a shift in the casual dining industry, with parent companies focusing on efficiency and higher profitability. For customers, this means fewer opportunities to visit their favorite barbecue chain. For employees, it has meant adjustments as some locations shut their doors or transform into a completely new dining experience.
Key takeaways include:
- Greater efficiency: Closing underperforming restaurants reduces wasted resources and strengthens financial stability.
- Conversions boost revenue: Twin Peaks conversions are proving far more profitable than Smokey Bones units.
- Smaller footprint: Smokey Bones will now operate less than half the number of restaurants it once had.
- Potential franchise growth: Plans are in place to franchise some remaining units to support brand longevity.
At a Glance
| Category | Before Closures | After Closures & Conversions |
|---|---|---|
| Total Smokey Bones locations | ~60 | ~26 |
| Restaurants closed | 15 | Completed by Q3 2025 |
| Converted to Twin Peaks | 2 completed | 19 expected |
| Avg. Smokey Bones sales/unit | $3.5 million | Remaining units $1.3M–$7.1M |
| Avg. Twin Peaks sales/unit | N/A | $7.8 million |
What This Means for Customers
For long-time fans of Smokey Bones, the closures are bittersweet. While fewer locations remain open, the brand is expected to sharpen its focus on quality and service at its surviving restaurants. At the same time, diners in some areas may find their local Smokey Bones replaced by a Twin Peaks, which offers a very different dining experience.
The restructuring highlights how competitive the U.S. casual dining landscape has become. Chains are under pressure to adapt quickly, and Smokey Bones is no exception.
Smokey Bones closures may be disappointing for loyal fans, but they also mark the beginning of a new chapter for the chain. With fewer but stronger restaurants, and with conversions fueling growth at Twin Peaks, the company is positioning itself for a more profitable future. How do you feel about these changes—are you hopeful for Smokey Bones’ survival or do you think the brand is fading away? Share your thoughts in the comments below.