10/19/2025
Hey everyone — I wanted to take a moment to explain what’s been going on and why Budro’s BBQ is no longer up at Chenango Valley State Park.
The short version: we didn’t pull out — we were pushed out.
When the park put out bids for next season, I made the decision not to submit one. That wasn’t because we didn’t want to stay (we loved serving everyone up there) but because of how things are run behind the scenes. The level of control, constant micromanagement, and power-driven attitude from park management makes it almost impossible to operate freely or fairly as a small business.
After I chose not to bid, management made it clear they didn’t take that well. I was even told directly that “they’d be just fine without me” and that they could “just get Pizza Hut to come up and sell pizzas” instead. To say that was a slap in the face is an understatement — especially to a small, local business that takes pride in smoking everything from scratch and putting heart into every plate.
Unfortunately, that conversation pretty much summed up their mindset. What followed was a spiteful decision to cut our remaining time short, even though we had agreed to stay longer (including during an upcoming 800+ person event we’d already started purchasing product and prepping for.)
I don’t like badmouthing small, local businesses, and thankfully, State Park doesn’t fall under that category. But I do believe in being honest and transparent with the people who’ve supported me since day one.
We put everything into building Budro’s BBQ up there.. Long days, hot grills, and a whole lot of heart. Having it end this way stings, but it’s not the end. We’ve got new opportunities coming, new locations to announce, and plenty more BBQ to go around.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported us. Your messages, visits, and encouragement mean the world. Budro’s BBQ isn’t slowing down — it’s just moving forward. 🔥
