ROANOKE, Va. – After 20 years in business, Smokey Bones is the latest restaurant to close in Roanoke’s Valley View area. Its final day is Sunday, joining a growing list of chain restaurant closures in the last 18 months, including TGI Fridays, Penn Station Subs, and Logan’s Roadhouse.
Some experts say there’s a broader industry shift toward delivery and takeout, even post COVID-19, making it harder for traditional sit-down chains to survive. But in Roanoke Valley, it’s not the only factor.
“I think it’s just reflective of the fact that there’s just a lot more options than in years past in the Valley,” said Marc Nelson, Director of Economic Development for the City of Roanoke. “And that was one [Smokey Bones] was one of the restaurants that just wasn’t frequented as much.”
In 2023, Smokey Bones was acquired by FAT Brands for $30 million. The company now says it’s closing underperforming locations and converting about 30 others into Twin Peaks, a national sports bar chain.
“Converting Smokey Bones locations to Twin Peaks provides a significant return on investments,” said Ken Kuick, Co-CEO of FAT Brands, in a statement. “Twin Peaks is our fastest-growing concept, producing strong and growing average-unit volumes.”
Local residents say they’re disappointed to lose another long-time dining option in the Valley View area.
“It’s really sad,” said Wanda Hylton while standing outside Smokey Bones. “Smokey Bones is our favorite and Logan’s was our favorite. They’ve already closed, so we’re having to look for other places to eat. We’re both retired so we eat out a lot.”
“We were hoping it would be more of a family atmosphere restaurant than what may be coming in, but we just have to wait and see,” said Dennis Bowling, another customer outside the restaurant.
10 News reached out to FAT Brands to confirm whether the Valley View Smokey Bones will be rebranded as Twin Peaks or closed permanently and we have not yet received a response.
Original
The Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill in Valley View is set to close on July 6, according to note left on the window of the restaurant Tuesday and in an email sent to customers.
The email to customers said in part:
Our Smokey Bones location in Roanoke, VA will be closing. Our last day of business will be on Sunday, July 6. We’re incredibly grateful for the memories, the meals, and the community we’ve built together here in Roanoke. thank you for making us part of your celebrations, your cravings and your everyday moments. If you’re able, we’d love for you to stop by one last time. Use your coupons, enjoy your go-to dishes, and let us say thank you in person.
Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill
10 News went to Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill and located the note on the window:
A reason for the decision to close has not been given yet, but 10 News will continue to update this story with more information as we receive it.