Lauderdale Sun and Scene
Archives
Smokey Bones Closes More Florida Locations Amid Shift to Twin Peaks
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
Smokey Bones Shutters More Florida Locations Amid Shift to 'Breastaurant' Concept |
Barbecue Chain Transforms Underperforming Sites into Twin Peaks Sports Bars |
Smokey Bones, once a prominent name in Florida's barbecue scene, is closing additional locations across the state. This move is part of a strategic shift by parent company FAT Brands to rebrand underperforming restaurants into Twin Peaks sports bars, a concept often referred to as a 'breastaurant' due to its focus on scantily clad waitstaff and sports entertainment.
The transformation began in late 2024 with the conversion of a Lakeland, Florida, Smokey Bones into a Twin Peaks. This location has reportedly exceeded performance expectations, prompting the company to accelerate similar conversions statewide. In April 2025, the Smokey Bones on Skibo Road in Fayetteville closed its doors, making way for a Twin Peaks set to open later this year. ([wkml.com](https://wkml.com/2025/05/01/fayetteville-smokey-bones-closes-to-be-replaced-by-sister-restaurant/?utm_source=openai))
FAT Brands' decision to pivot towards the Twin Peaks model stems from its higher profit margins and rapid growth compared to Smokey Bones. The company plans to convert 30 out of the remaining 45 Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks establishments, leaving only 15 Smokey Bones restaurants operational nationwide. ([livemint.com](https://www.livemint.com/news/us-news/smokey-bones-american-barbecue-chain-to-close-more-locations-as-twin-hospitality-focuses-on-profitability-11757427232050.html?utm_source=openai))
This strategic shift reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry, where brands are adapting to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions. By focusing on the Twin Peaks concept, FAT Brands aims to capitalize on the growing demand for sports-themed dining experiences.
For Florida residents, this means saying goodbye to several Smokey Bones locations that have been community staples for years. However, the introduction of Twin Peaks offers a new dining and entertainment option, blending sports viewing with a distinctive atmosphere.
As the restaurant landscape continues to evolve, patrons can expect more transformations as companies strive to meet market demands and enhance profitability. |