Burlington Bluebird BBQ to Close Permanently Saturday

The long-standing Riverside Avenue barbecue destination will conclude its 17-year run on October 31.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Dining Out

Burlington Bluebird BBQ to Close Permanently Saturday

Live Poll

Do you feel local restaurants are becoming less viable in your community?

Bluebird BBQ in Burlington announced its permanent closure on Thursday, October 29. The establishment is set to shutter its doors following its final day of service on Saturday, October 31.

Why it matters

The closure marks the end of a 17-year tenure for the local restaurant. Ownership noted that current business conditions are no longer conducive to continuing operations.

The restaurant, which opened on Riverside Avenue in 2009, is limiting service to curbside pickup only for its final three days. Daily operations during this closing window are restricted to the hours of 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The players

Bluebird BBQ

This established restaurant has served the Burlington community from its location on Riverside Avenue for 17 years.

The details

Bluebird BBQ is winding down operations after nearly two decades in the community. Customers looking to visit the restaurant one last time must utilize the curbside service model for the remainder of its business days.

Bluebird BBQ opened on Riverside Avenue in 2009.
The restaurant announced its closure on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The final day of service is Saturday, October 31, 2026.

Beer
Oct. 27
Vermont Pub and Brewery to Close in Burlington
Philanthropy
Oct. 25
North End Food Pantry Sees Rising Local Demand
Dance
Oct. 28
Girls Nite Out Productions to Close in October

Culture Shift

The closure of Bluebird BBQ follows the ongoing shift in independent restaurant sustainability in urban markets. This event highlights the struggle for long-standing local businesses to maintain operations in an evolving economic landscape.

Residents and loyal customers have until October 31 to place final orders for curbside pickup before the restaurant closes permanently. After this date, the location will no longer provide service to the Burlington community.

The takeaway

Supporting long-time neighborhood establishments requires patronage, especially as they navigate the difficult final stages of their business lifecycle. Residents should note the limited operating window of 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for any final visits this weekend.