GROVE CITY, Ohio — The Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill in Grove City has permanently closed its doors, marking the end of the brand’s presence in the immediate Columbus area following a swift wave of shutdowns this year.
The closure is part of a broader “spending review” and portfolio overhaul by Twin Hospitality Group, which recently acquired the chain. The Grove City location follows the closure of the Morse Crossing site in January and the Reynoldsburg restaurant, which also shuttered this week.
A Strategy of “Efficiency”
According to Twin Hospitality Group CEO Kim Boerema, the closures are the result of a rigorous audit intended to eliminate underperforming units and refocus on “high-return initiatives.”
“Since joining Twin Hospitality, we have launched a full spending review across both brands to eliminate inefficiencies, uncover synergies, and refocus on high-return initiatives,” Boerema stated in a press release. “I have also focused on reviewing the Smokey Bones portfolio, closing underperforming units, identifying strong candidates for conversion, and supporting profitable locations.”
New Leadership, New Direction
The restructuring coincides with the appointment of Ken Brendemihl as the new President of Smokey Bones. Brendemihl, who is tasked with leading the chain through this “transitional period,” expressed optimism despite the shrinking footprint in Central Ohio.
“I look forward to hitting the ground running as we embark on this transitional period that will set the foundation for Smokey Bones’ long-term success,” Brendemihl said.
Impact on Central Ohio
For local barbecue fans, the news is a significant blow. Earlier this year, the Morse Crossing location was a staple for north-side diners, and the simultaneous loss of the Grove City and Reynoldsburg locations leaves a void in the local casual dining market.
While some shuttered sites may be “candidates for conversion” into other brands under the Twin Hospitality umbrella, the company has not yet announced specific plans for the now-vacant Grove City building. For now, the “Bar & Fire Grill” has officially gone cold in the capital region.
