Liputan6.com, Jakarta - The oldest continuously operating Red Lobster restaurant, located on North Monroe Street in Tallahassee, Florida, will permanently close on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
This closure marks the end of 56 years of operations since it first opened in October 1970, ending a long era for the culinary icon.
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The closure decision is part of a broader restructuring effort by Red Lobster after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2024.
While the location survived the initial wave of closures that affected more than 100 Red Lobster restaurants across the US, including 17 in Florida, this historic location is now the next to cease operations.
Red Lobster CEO Damola Adamolekun stated in February 2026 that the company needed to reduce its footprint and was actively reviewing its restaurant roster and lease terms.
Red Lobster's Story in Tallahassee Ends
The Red Lobster restaurant on North Monroe Street in Tallahassee, Florida, has been an integral part of the local community for more than five decades.
Since its opening in October 1970, the restaurant has served seafood and created memories for generations of customers.
The permanent closure on May 24, 2026, ends 56 years of continuous operation, making it the oldest Red Lobster location still serving customers.
This news was confirmed by the restaurant's manager and staff to the Tallahassee Democrat on May 18, 2026.
“We can confirm the Tallahassee restaurant will be closing. This restaurant holds a special place in Red Lobster’s history and has been a meaningful part of the community for decades. We’re grateful to the guests and team members who have supported it over the years,” a Red Lobster spokesperson shared with TODAY.com.
Red Lobster Bankruptcy and Restructuring Efforts
The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2024.
As part of the bankruptcy process, more than 100 Red Lobster restaurants across the United States closed in 2024, including 17 locations in Florida.
The Tallahassee location was an exception, weathering the initial wave of closures.
Red Lobster emerged from bankruptcy in September 2024 after being acquired by RL Investor Holdings LLC and receiving an investment of approximately $70 million.
Fortress Investment Group also injected $60 million to support the 545 remaining locations.
Red Lobster CEO Damola Adamolekun emphasized in February 2026 the need for the company to "get smaller" and actively review its restaurant roster and lease terms.
Red Lobster's Financial Challenges
Despite numerous efforts to revive the restaurant, including new menu launches and investments, the Tallahassee location of Red Lobster ultimately failed to sustain its operations long-term.
Red Lobster's financial woes had persisted for years.
Factors such as mounting debt, high rent and labor costs, and declining customer traffic all contributed to these financial difficulties.
One significant driver of losses was the "Endless Shrimp" promotion, which was changed from a limited-time offer to a permanent menu item in 2023.
This resulted in a loss of approximately $11 million in a single quarter, demonstrating the impact of an ill-conceived strategy at the time.
Restructuring efforts are ongoing, as evidenced by additional workforce cuts in December 2025 involving approximately 1% of restaurant-level staff.
Furthermore, 10% of corporate staff were also reduced, indicating that the company is still struggling to achieve sustainable financial stability.