Darden Restaurants has announced plans to close 14 of its 28 Bahama Breeze locations across the United States following a strategic review of the Caribbean-themed casual dining brand. The closures represent half of all Bahama Breeze restaurants, with the remaining locations set for conversion to other brands within the Darden portfolio over the coming months.
The company confirmed that the 14 Bahama Breeze restaurant closures will occur after operations continue until April 5, 2026. According to the announcement, locations scheduled for permanent closure span multiple states including Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida, along with sites in King of Prussia and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania.
Strategic Shift Away from Bahama Breeze Brand
Darden had previously indicated that Bahama Breeze locations were “no longer a strategic priority” for the company. The restaurant operator stated it would explore strategic alternatives for the brand, including a potential sale, though it appears the company has now opted for closures and conversions instead.
The remaining 14 Bahama Breeze sites will undergo conversion to other Darden-owned brands over the next 12 to 18 months. These locations are expected to remain operational until temporary closures become necessary to complete the conversion work, according to the company.
Conversion Plans and Portfolio Integration
While Darden has not yet disclosed which of its restaurant brands will replace the converted Bahama Breeze locations, the company expressed confidence in the real estate. The company stated it believes “the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio.”
Darden operates several well-known restaurant chains including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, and The Capital Grille. Additionally, the company’s portfolio includes Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Seasons 52, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, providing multiple options for the Bahama Breeze conversions.
Financial Impact and Employee Support
The restaurant operator does not anticipate the Bahama Breeze closures and conversions will have a material impact on its overall financial results. However, the move represents a significant restructuring of the Caribbean-themed dining concept that has been part of Darden’s portfolio for decades.
In its announcement, Darden emphasized its commitment to supporting affected employees through the transition. The company stated that its priority “will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio,” indicating efforts to retain workers across its other restaurant brands.
Industry Context and Market Challenges
The decision to shutter half of all Bahama Breeze restaurants reflects broader challenges facing casual dining establishments in the current market environment. Meanwhile, restaurant operators nationwide continue evaluating their brand portfolios and real estate footprints to optimize performance and profitability.
The strategic review and subsequent closure announcement underscore how major restaurant companies are making difficult decisions about underperforming concepts. In contrast to other Darden brands that have shown stronger performance, Bahama Breeze appears to have struggled to maintain its competitive position.
The company is expected to provide additional details about which specific Darden brands will occupy the converted locations as the 12 to 18-month conversion timeline progresses. Furthermore, updates on employee placement efforts and the transition process for affected markets will likely emerge as the April 2026 closure date approaches for the 14 shuttered locations.
