“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 felt by many in the neighborhood as they prepare to bid farewell to a cherished gathering place.
After 15 years of serving mouthwatering barbecue on Union Street in Gowanus, the restaurant will close its doors due to the expiration of its lease. The building itself is set to be demolished to make way for new apartments, a trend that has become all too common in Brooklyn.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has been more than just a restaurant. As they put it, “It’s been a place for friends, families, first dates, celebrations, and plenty of unforgettable nights.” For many locals, it was a go-to spot where memories were made over platters of ribs and pulled pork.
The story of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que dates back to 1983 when founder John Stage began his culinary journey with a traveling concession stand at biker rallies and festivals. The first physical location opened in Syracuse in 1988, and since then, the brand has grown—at one point boasting ten locations across various states. However, as economic realities shifted, the number of out-of-state locations dwindled until only five remain: two in New York City and three upstate.
Yet even as the Brooklyn location prepares to close, it leaves behind a legacy. The restaurant has been described as a vital part of community life. “But what really made this place special wasn’t just the building. It was the people,” Dinosaur Bar-B-Que reflected in their farewell announcement. Patrons like Jessica Rivera, who celebrated her birthday there every year since it opened, feel the loss deeply. “This was our spot—where I met friends and shared countless laughs,” she said.
The official final service date has not yet been announced, but gift cards will be honored through its last day and at all remaining locations thereafter. As residents anticipate this transition, they reflect on how much Dinosaur Bar-B-Que meant to them: “Brooklyn, thank you for 15 unforgettable years,” they concluded.
As Brooklyn continues to evolve with new developments and changing landscapes, establishments like Dinosaur Bar-B-Que remind us of the importance of community spaces where people can come together—over good food and shared experiences. With only five locations left after this closure, supporters hope that those remaining will continue to thrive and carry on the spirit that made Dinosaur Bar-B-Que a beloved name.
