Shorty’s BBQ Dadeland Set to Close After 73 Years of Serving Up Miami’s Favorite Ribs

October 8, 2025

Miami, we’re losing another icon. After nearly three-quarters of a century, the legendary Shorty’s BBQ in Dadeland — yes, the log cabin spot that’s been feeding us smoky ribs and brisket since 1951 — is officially closing within the next year.

The reason? Not hurricanes. Not fires. Not even time. It’s South Florida’s red-hot real estate market that’s finally doing what nothing else could: taking down a Miami landmark.

Developers actually bought the property three years ago and have been leasing it back to Shorty’s ever since. Now, plans are moving forward to redevelop the site — most likely into a high-rise (because, Miami).

But before you panic about losing your go-to BBQ fix, here’s the good news: Shorty’s isn’t gone for good. CEO Mark Vasturo says the plan is to return to the same location once the project is finished — this time as part of a more modern retail space. Meanwhile, their West Miami and Davie spots will stay open and serving up the classics.

“We always knew there would be a high rise here and our goal is to come back as part of that new project,” Vasturo told reporters. “It could be a year, it could be more.”

Still, for generations of Miamians who grew up under those wooden beams and neon signs, it’s definitely a bittersweet goodbye. 🥹

TL;DR:
🍖 Shorty’s BBQ Dadeland closing after 73 years
🏗️ Land sold to developers, new project incoming
💪 Shorty’s plans to return in a new, modern space
🔥 West Miami + Davie locations still open for business

Another piece of old Miami is saying farewell — but this one’s promising to make a comeback.

Written by: Oliver Ford