Bahama Breeze Shutters All Restaurant Locations Nationwide
Bahama Breeze, a Caribbean-themed dining chain, is set to close all its restaurant locations across the nation. Darden Restaurants, which owns popular chains like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, announced this decision on a recent Tuesday. After 30 years in the business, Bahama Breeze will cease operations permanently on April 5.
Closure Details of Bahama Breeze
The impending closure affects the remaining 28 Bahama Breeze locations. This decision follows a significant reduction last year when one-third of its locations were closed. Darden is converting half of these restaurants into other brands it owns, while the other half will close entirely.
Locations Affected
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- Virginia
- Washington
- Pennsylvania (2 locations)
- Florida (5 locations)
Over the next 12 to 18 months, Darden will repurpose 14 locations, mostly located near Orlando, Florida, though specific brands have yet to be announced. Until these transitions occur, the affected sites will continue operating as Bahama Breeze.
Economic Context and Future Plans
This closure is indicative of broader challenges faced by restaurant chains catering to lower and middle-income families. Many diners are tightening their budgets due to rising inflation and declining consumer confidence. Despite these trends, other Darden brands have performed well, reporting positive same-store sales increases.
Darden’s stock has experienced an 8% increase this year, reflecting the resilience of its other brands. The company aims to support Bahama Breeze employees by assisting them in finding roles within its expansive portfolio of restaurants.
