JEFFERSONTOWN, Ky. — A beloved barbecue restaurant in Louisville announced Wednesday that they are closing after 10 years in business.
FDKY Barbecue set its tentative last day open as April 27th, though the date is subject to change due if they run out of inventory beforehand.
The owners of FDKY Barbecue put out a statement on Facebook, thanking their loyal customers for their support and listing some reasons for their sudden closure.
"Since 2020 Covid, the economy and the lack of people wanting to work, made it extremely difficult to keep the doors open and a not so profitable endeavor," Bruce Loeffler said in a Facebook post.
FDKY Barbecue had some name changes throughout its lifetime. It first opened in 2001 under the name "Firehouse BBQ." Then it was renamed "Firefresh BBQ" in 2006, "Bruce's Smokehouse" in 2007, "Crabby Jake's Fish House & Barbecue" in 2011, and finally FDKY (Fire Departments of Kentucky) Barbecue from 2013 to now.
The business couldn't go back to its original name, Firehouse BBQ, due to infringement rights issues with Firehouse Subs, the owners said.
Loeffler closed his statement with a touching request to support the local businesses around them.
"We appreciate the number of years that you all have supported us, and chose to spend some of your hard earned money with us," Loeffler said. "Please understand, that the small independent retailers only survive because of you. They can't buy cheaper, they can't take profits from other locations that are doing well to save other locations that's had a bad week or two. Support the independents, they are your family, friends and neighbors."
FDKY Barbecue also announced they'll be selling some of their BBQ rubs and marinades until they sell out.
"Thank you all for a wonderful 10 years! We could not have made it this far without you!" The FDKY Barbecue Facebook post said.
Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.