Another longstanding barbecue destination is closing its doors. Lockhart’s BBQ in downtown Royal Oak will close after service on Sunday.

“Our lease is expiring and renewing is just not affordable. We have loved every brisket and rack of ribs that we have smoked on our Oyler,” reads a statement posted to Facebook Friday, thanking longtime customers and staff members. “More importantly we have loved meeting so many BBQ fans and enthusiast(s) over the last 15 years and we want to thank you for so many great memories.”

The announcement caused Lockhart’s BBQ — which has a full bar and spacious dining room in downtown Royal Oak — to sell out of smoked meats early on Sunday. Normally closed Mondays, Lockhart’s will be open every day through April 20 to service its final platters of burnt ends, smoked queso pork nachos, beef brisket and other Texas-style barbecue dishes.

Opened in 2010 by Texas native Drew Ciora and Michigan-born Rick Ghersi, Lockhart’s BBQ at 202 E. Third Street gained popularity with customers and food critics right away for its laid-back atmosphere that was barbecue-focused, but tried to offer something for everyone, including families and brunch goers, plus catering services. Just weeks after opening, the hot spot earned a glowing 3-star review from The Detroit News’ critic Molly Abraham.

“The ribs are excellent, but the real stars of the menu are the sliced beef brisket and burnt ends,” she wrote.

There was a second location for Lockhart’s BBQ in Lake Orion for about four years until 2019.

Lockhart’s BBQ announcement is the latest in a string of April restaurant closings for barbecue restaurants. Victory Inn, a longstanding bar in Warren with a smokehouse, and Lazybones Smokehouse of Macomb County both said goodbye to customers Saturday.

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For its final days, Lockhart’s will be open 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. through Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday at 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Call (248) 584-4227 or visit lockhartsbbq.com.