Westport Bootleg BBQ Closing After Nearly Three Years

A popular barbecue destination in Westport is preparing to close its brick-and-mortar location later this month.

Bootleg BBQ, which opened its doors on December 18, 2021, will officially serve its final day at the restaurant on December 28, just shy of its three-year anniversary. Owner Fred Melnyk shared the news with customers this week, calling the decision a difficult but necessary one.

For many locals, Bootleg BBQ wasn’t just a place to eat. It became a second home, known for slow-smoked meats, laid-back vibes, and a tight-knit staff that felt more like family.

Rising Costs and Changing Habits Took Their Toll

Melnyk says the closure ultimately came down to economics and timing.

Beef prices have continued to climb, margins have tightened, and as a protein-heavy barbecue smokehouse, the business faced higher labor and time costs than many people realize. Unlike fast-casual dining, true barbecue requires hours of preparation and constant hands-on work.

On top of that, Melnyk noted fewer people are dining out in general as families watch their spending more closely, something restaurants across the region are feeling.

A Farewell Jam on December 28

Bootleg BBQ’s final day will double as a celebration.

On Saturday, December 28, the restaurant plans to host a farewell jam, opening around 4 p.m. with festivities beginning closer to 6 p.m. The night will feature live jam-style music from local musicians who have been gathering there on Sundays for months.

Gazelle/Townsquare Media[/caption]The plan is an all-you-can-eat-and-drink buffet-style sendoff, with ticket pricing expected to land between $50 and $75. Melnyk said the food will be freshly prepared that week — not leftovers — and encourages customers to follow Bootleg BBQ on Facebook for final details and updates.

What’s Next for Bootleg BBQ?

While the restaurant itself is closing, Bootleg BBQ is not disappearing entirely.

Courtesy Fred Melnyk/Bootleg BBQ via Facebook

Melnyk plans to continue catering on a limited basis and hopes to remain active at local events like the Westport Fair and Westport Winery. The move is best described as a downsizing rather than a goodbye.

A Thank You to the Community

Perhaps the hardest part, Melnyk says, is saying goodbye to the people — both customers and staff.

Several team members, including Kasey and Brittney, have been with Bootleg BBQ since day one. Together, they rode out the highs and lows of running a small business in a challenging industry.

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Gallery Credit: Gazelle