“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our beloved Brooklyn store later this spring.” This poignant statement from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que encapsulates the sentiment surrounding the impending closure of its Brooklyn location, a fixture in the Gowanus neighborhood for 15 years.
The closure, driven by the expiration of the restaurant’s lease and subsequent demolition of the building for new apartments, signifies more than just a loss of a dining establishment. It marks the end of an era for many who considered this venue a gathering place for friends, families, and celebrations. The Brooklyn location on Union Street was not merely a restaurant; it was a community hub where countless memories were made.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has its origins in 1983, starting as a traveling concession stand at biker rallies before opening its first physical location in Syracuse in 1988. Over the years, it expanded to include ten locations across various states. However, as times changed and locations closed—often due to financial constraints—the brand has now dwindled down to five remaining sites: Harlem and four upstate cities: Syracuse, Rochester, Troy, and Buffalo.
But what really made this place special wasn’t just the building. “Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Brooklyn has been more than just a restaurant. It’s been a place for friends, families, first dates, celebrations, and plenty of unforgettable nights in Gowanus,” expressed the restaurant’s management. This statement resonates deeply with patrons who have shared countless meals and milestones within those walls.
The official final service date has yet to be announced; however, gift cards will be honored at the Brooklyn location until its last day of service and at all remaining locations thereafter—providing some comfort to loyal customers. The restaurant’s management expressed gratitude towards the Brooklyn community: “Brooklyn, thank you for 15 unforgettable years.”
This closure comes at a time when many local businesses are struggling to survive amidst rising costs and changing consumer habits. The once-thriving chain now faces an uncertain future as it navigates this transition. The Rochester location even earned recognition in Yelp’s Top 100 Barbecue Spots for 2024—ranking at number 96—highlighting that while some locations are closing, others still thrive.
That context matters because it illustrates how community support can make or break local businesses. As Dinosaur Bar-B-Que bids farewell to its Brooklyn home, it leaves behind not just recipes but also heartfelt connections forged over shared meals.
As we await further announcements regarding their final day of service in Brooklyn, one cannot help but reflect on what this closure represents—a shift in the culinary landscape of New York City and a reminder of how quickly things can change in our neighborhoods.