Award-winning barbecue chain shutters East Boston location
The Smoke Shop BBQ has closed its East Boston restaurant, with the owner of the award-winning chain saying he plans to focus on other more profitable locations.
The Smoke Shop BBQ East Boston, which opened in July 2023 , closed this past Sunday, Oct. 5, owner Andy Husbands told MassLive in a statement Wednesday. The restaurant was located along the East Boston waterfront at 45 Lewis St.
"We truly loved being in Eastie — the neighborhood, the people, and of course that incredible view. We're grateful for the many regulars who supported us and for our team members who worked so hard to bring amazing BBQ and hospitality to the community," he wrote. "We'll miss East Boston and our neighbors there, but we're proud of the time we spent in the community and thankful for the support of our guests and the dedication of our team."
While he did not provide a specific reason for the closure, Husbands said, "While the summers were fantastic, we found the winters to be more challenging."
That said, Husbands said he plans on putting more energy toward the brand's recently opened locations in Methuen, Woburn and Chelmsford, "all of which are doing incredibly well."
"We're focusing our energy on these restaurants, where we're seeing strong momentum, and we're excited about the future of the brand," the business owner added.
With the East Boston closure, The Smoke Shop BBQ is down to six locations across Eastern Massachusetts. They are Assembly Row in Somerville, Harvard Square in Cambridge, Seaport in Boston, Methuen, Chelmsford and Woburn.
The Smoke Shop BBQ is a barbecue chain that specializes in "a unique style" honoring Husband's more than 20 years of barbecue competition, the company's website reads. The Smoke Shop is also known for its extensive whiskey program.
The local chain has received dozens of awards including being named Best Barbecue Restaurant by Boston Magazine in 2018.
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