Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Darden Restaurants, the parent company of Bahama Breeze, has announced a strategic decision regarding the future of the Caribbean-themed restaurant chain.
This decision involves the permanent closure of 14 locations and the conversion of another 14 locations to a different Darden brand, as reported by CNN.
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This marks the end of the Bahama Breeze brand after nearly three decades of operation in the United States.
This strategic announcement was made on February 3, 2026, following a thorough evaluation of the company's priorities.
The restaurants that will be permanently closed are scheduled to operate until April 5, 2026, while the conversion process will take the next 12 to 18 months.
This move comes as Bahama Breeze is no longer a strategic priority for Darden, amid declining sales and a challenging business environment for casual dining restaurants in the US.
Background of the Major Closure
Darden Restaurants has stated that the Bahama Breeze brand, with its 28 locations, is no longer a strategic priority for the company.
The company has considered various alternatives, including selling the brand or converting it to another brand in its portfolio.
This decision follows years of declining sales and a shift in business focus.In 2024, the chain recorded a 7.7% decline in systemwide sales, with average sales per location reaching $5.7 million.
The challenging business environment for casual dining chains in the United States, such as rising operating costs, pressure on consumer affordability, and intense competition from fast-casual concepts, contributed to this decision.
Bahama Breeze Closures and Conversion Process
Darden Restaurants will permanently close 14 Bahama Breeze locations, which are expected to continue operating until April 5, 2026.
Meanwhile, the remaining 14 Bahama Breeze locations will be converted to other restaurant brands within the Darden portfolio.
“The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio,” it said in a press release. “Going forward, the primary focus will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio.”
The conversion process for the remaining locations is expected to take place over the next 12 to 18 months.
The Closure and Conversions Area
These closures and conversions are spread across the United States, affecting states such as Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.
Examples of locations to be closed include the restaurant at St. Johns Town Center in Jacksonville, Florida, and the lone location in Tukwila, Washington.
In Georgia, one location (Duluth) will permanently close while another (Kennesaw) will be converted.
Darden has not yet disclosed the specific brands that will replace the converted locations, but its portfolio includes Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, and Eddie V's.