Restaurant Chain Swiftly Vanishes from Eight States Without a Trace
Hitting Hard Times: Bahama Breeze Closes One-Third of Locations
In a tough decision, Darden Restaurants has closed 15 out of 43 Bahama Breeze's locations across eight states. These closures leave just 29 islands-themed restaurants standing.
The axed outposts can be found in Florida, New Jersey, Tennessee, Nevada, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York. The bulk of the closures is concentrated in Florida and New Jersey, with the remaining locations scattered across the other mentioned states.
Darden's announcement comes as they focus on the chain's top-performers, aiming to boost overall brand performance. The restaurant group admitted that the decision to shutter these locations was never easy, knowing it would impact both employees and guests. They are making an effort to find alternative employment within other Darden-owned restaurants for displaced workers or offering severance packages.
NJ Biz reported that all but one location in New Jersey were closed, with 327 employees losing their jobs, effective May 15. The Cherry Hill location remains the lone survivor in the Garden State.
Bahama Breeze reported a staggering $246.7 million in U.S. sales last year, down a disheartening 7.7% compared to 2023. This downward trend shows the casual dining sector is facing turbulent times, as legacy chains struggle to stay afloat.
Closures in Select States
While the exact number of Florida closures isn't explicitly stated, WFLA confirmed that locations in Tampa, Brandon, and Lutz, along with most in Orlando, have managed to escape the chopping block. The following Florida cities have been hit hard by the closures:
- Gainesville
- Naples
- Daytona Beach
- Sunrise
- Oakland Park
Bahama Breeze isn't the only chain feeling the heat from this industry shift. Darden also decided to shutter an Eddie V's location in Boston and two Seasons 52 units in Sacramento, California, and the Kansas City area.
With fewer restaurants coast-to-coast, Bahama Breeze aims to focus on delivering the best food, drinks, and overall experience to its customers. Hang in there, island fans – here's hoping for a brighter future for Bahama Breeze!
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- In an attempt to revitalize their brand, Darden Restaurants, to focus on top-performing locations, decided to close various Bahama Breeze restaurants, affecting not only food-and-drink experiences but also the lifestyle and dining choices of patrons.
- Despite the closure of multiple locations in Florida, including Gainesville, Naples, Daytona Beach, Sunrise, and Oakland Park, prospects for the future of Bahama Breeze remain, as they aim to refocus on home-and-garden improvements to deliver a superior food, drinks, and overall dining experience.
