Overview

• Darden Restaurants confirmed the closure of 15 underperforming Bahama Breeze locations, reducing the chain's total to 29 nationwide.
• The decision was framed as a strategic move to focus on the brand's strongest-performing restaurants and improve overall performance.
• The closures span eight states, including Florida, New Jersey, and Tennessee, with impacted employees being reassigned to other Darden brands or offered severance packages.
• Customers were informed of the abrupt shutdowns through door signage and social media updates, with no prior notice provided.
• The closures highlight broader challenges in the casual dining sector, which is struggling with declining sales and reduced consumer spending due to inflation.