Abingdon’s Beloved Bone Fire Smokehouse Passes the Torch to New Restaurateur

Abingdon, Va. — Big changes are underway at one of Abingdon’s most cherished eating spots. The Bone Fire Smokehouse, well-known for its legendary BBQ and vibrant music scene, has officially closed its doors after 15 glorious years in service. While the news comes as a significant loss to the local community, the building itself has now found a new tenant, bringing a mix of excitement and curiosity to the town.

The owners of Bone Fire took to social media to share their heartfelt goodbye and to explain the journey leading up to the closure. “It was our hope to find a good steward to continue the operations of ‘The Bone,’” they wrote. “However, after more than four months of discussions, we have decided to retire the brand rather than risk its legacy.” They emphasized that the new tenant’s vision did not align with the unique culture and history cultivated at Bone Fire.

Over its tenure, the Bone Fire Smokehouse grew into more than just a restaurant. It became a symbol of community for many in Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee. Housing not only great food but also memorable live music shows, the venue became etched in the hearts of its patrons. “It always was the people that made Bone Fire feel like home,” the farewell message added. “It was about the great people who worked there over the years, and the hundreds of thousands of people who sat at the giant wooden bar made from the original hardware store counter.”

The future plans of the new tenant remain largely under wraps, but what’s clear is that they have some big shoes to fill. The Bone Fire experience was “impossible to recreate,” the owners said. They expressed hope that the new tenant will take time to understand the heritage and culture of the area, adding, “People here are different than city folk from Florida.”

Despite the disappointment, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly supportive. Residents have taken to social media to share their favorite memories and to thank the restaurant for its years of exemplary service. Long-time customer Joan D. wrote, “So many wonderful evenings spent enjoying your delicious BBQ and listening to amazing live bands. You’ll be missed, Bone Fire!”

This transition comes at a bustling time for Abingdon’s food scene. Just down the street, Bristol Casino is looking to fill hundreds of positions, indicating a potential influx of both residents and visitors to the area. Additionally, new businesses like Aroma Coffee House and Iris Books & Coffee are preparing to open soon, further diversifying the local marketplace.

The global pandemic has also played a role in how local businesses have had to adapt and evolve. Throughout more than a year of lockdowns and restrictions, small eateries like the Bone Fire Smokehouse faced unprecedented challenges. While the owners did not cite the pandemic explicitly in their farewell post, it’s hard to ignore how much the dining landscape has changed in so short a period.

As for the Bone Fire Smokehouse, it leaves behind a legacy that’s rich in flavor, culture, and community spirit. The farewell message wrapped up by expressing gratitude: “Thanks to all you wonderful people who supported Bone Fire over the years either through your hard work or your generous patronage. It was you that made it all happen. There will always be a warm place in our hearts for you. Cheers!”

Looking forward, the community remains eager yet cautious about what new dining experiences the incoming restaurateur will bring. While Bone Fire’s shoes are indeed large and difficult to fill, the promise of new flavors and potentially new traditions instills a sense of optimism. The groundwork laid by Bone Fire Smokehouse will undoubtedly serve as fertile soil for new ventures to take root.

So whether it’s to reminisce about good times or to speculate what might come next, Abingdon residents will closely watch this beloved spot’s next chapter unfold. It’s a bittersweet goodbye but also an exciting new beginning for this ever-evolving town.