Smoke & Barrel, a <a href="https://nycrestaurantvoice.com/new-korean-barbecue-spot-opens-in-jackson-heights-20260418071507/">barbecue</a> <a href="https://nycrestaurantvoice.com/801-restaurant-group-files-for-chapter-11-amid-financial-restructuring-20260418014016/">restaurant</a> in East <a href="https://nycrestaurantvoice.com/new-italian-trattoria-opens-in-williamsburg-20260418071518/">Williamsburg</a>, has closed after five <a href="https://nycrestaurantvoice.com/lina-bradford-marks-30-years-as-a-dj-in-new-yorks-queer-club-scene-20260418014051/">years</a>. The owners attributed the decision to a combination of lease expiration and increased competition in the neighborhood’s barbecue scene. Smoke & Barrel was known for its Texas-style smoked meats and casual setting.
The closure leaves a gap in East Williamsburg’s barbecue options amid a rise in new entrants and shifting dining trends. Regular customers expressed regret over the loss on social media. The space at 34th Street and Grand Avenue is currently listed for lease.