Orlando, Florida, February 7, 2026
Darden Restaurants has announced the permanent closure of all 28 Bahama Breeze locations in the U.S., marking a significant change in the restaurant industry. This decision comes as part of a strategic review indicating that the brand does not align with the company’s long-term growth objectives. The closures will occur in two phases, with 14 locations shutting down by April 2026 and the rest converting into other Darden-owned brands. Approximately 75 employees in several Florida locations will be affected, but transfer opportunities within Darden will be provided.
Orlando, Florida – Bahama Breeze to Close All Locations Nationwide
Orlando, Florida – In a strategic move that signals shifts within the restaurant industry, Darden Restaurants has announced the permanent closure of all 28 Bahama Breeze locations across the United States. This decision arises from a careful review that indicated the brand is not aligned with the company’s long-term growth objectives.
This closure underscores both the resilience and challenges faced by businesses in an ever-changing economic landscape. As local enterprises navigate shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures, it’s essential to recognize the innovation and adaptability that characterize Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Details of the Closures
The closures will unfold in two distinct phases:
- Permanent Closures: 14 Bahama Breeze restaurants will cease operations by April 5, 2026.
- Conversions: The remaining 14 locations will be converted into other Darden-owned brands over the next 12 to 18 months.
Impact on Florida Locations
In Florida, the following Bahama Breeze restaurants are slated for closure:
- Pembroke Pines: 11000 Pines Blvd.
- Miami: 12395 SW 88th Street.
- Jacksonville: 10205 Rivercoast Drive.
- Kissimmee: 1251 West Osceola Pkwy.
- Sanford: 1540 Rinehart Road.
As local economies grapple with the effects of these closures, approximately 75 employees at the Jacksonville, Kissimmee, and Sanford locations, and 77 employees at the Miami location will be affected. Darden Restaurants has issued notices under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, signifying their commitment to supporting impacted workers through potential transfer opportunities within the broader Darden portfolio.
Background on Bahama Breeze
Launched in 1996, Bahama Breeze became a favorite dining destination known for its Caribbean-inspired cuisine, featuring seafood, chicken, steaks, and tropical drinks. Despite its initial success and rapid expansion, the chain has faced declining sales and struggled to resonate with evolving customer preferences in recent years.
Company’s Strategic Shift
Darden Restaurants operates a variety of well-known dining establishments, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and Yard House. The strategic decision to close Bahama Breeze locations highlights the company’s focus on optimizing its operations and aligning its business model with current market demands. This move emphasizes the importance of adapting to consumer expectations to foster long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Bahama Breeze closing all its locations?
Darden Restaurants, the parent company, conducted a strategic review and determined that Bahama Breeze no longer aligns with its long-term growth objectives.
Which Bahama Breeze locations are closing?
14 Bahama Breeze restaurants will permanently close by April 5, 2026, including locations in Florida, Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.
What will happen to the employees affected by the closures?
Darden Restaurants has filed notices under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, indicating that the closures will affect approximately 75 employees at each of the Jacksonville, Kissimmee, and Sanford locations, and 77 employees at the Miami location. The company is offering transfer opportunities to other locations within the Darden portfolio.
What is the future of the remaining Bahama Breeze locations?
The remaining 14 Bahama Breeze locations will be converted into other Darden-owned brands over the next 12 to 18 months. Specific details about the conversions have not been disclosed.
What is the history of Bahama Breeze?
Founded in 1996, Bahama Breeze was a Caribbean-inspired restaurant chain known for its seafood, chicken, steaks, and tropical drinks. Over the years, the brand expanded to multiple locations nationwide but faced declining sales and struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences, leading to its eventual closure.
Key Features of the Bahama Breeze Closures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Locations Closing | 14 Bahama Breeze restaurants will permanently close by April 5, 2026. |
| Number of Locations Converting | 14 remaining locations will be converted into other Darden-owned brands over the next 12 to 18 months. |
| Impact on Employees | Approximately 75 employees at each of the Jacksonville, Kissimmee, and Sanford locations, and 77 employees at the Miami location, will be affected. Transfer opportunities within the Darden portfolio are being offered. |
| Company’s Strategic Shift | Darden Restaurants has stated that the decision to close Bahama Breeze aligns with its focus on supporting team members and placing them in roles within the Darden portfolio. |
| History of Bahama Breeze | Founded in 1996, Bahama Breeze was a Caribbean-inspired restaurant chain known for its seafood, chicken, steaks, and tropical drinks. The brand faced declining sales and struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences, leading to its eventual closure. |
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