Darden Restaurants to Close Bahama Breeze Locations

Darden Restaurants, the parent company of Bahama Breeze, announced on February 3, 2026, that it will permanently close 14 of its remaining 28 Bahama Breeze locations and convert the other 14 into different brands within its portfolio. The closures will take effect by April 5, 2026, marking the end of the Caribbean-themed dining chain that has been in operation since 1996. The decision follows a strategic review indicating that Bahama Breeze is no longer a priority for Darden, which also owns Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and several other restaurant brands.

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The closures will impact locations across several states, including Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida. Specifically, 15 of the 28 locations are in Florida, with notable closures in Pembroke Pines, Miami, and Jacksonville. The 14 locations designated for conversion include sites in Orlando and Tampa, although Darden has not disclosed which specific brands will replace Bahama Breeze at these sites.

Bahama Breeze to close last restaurant in NJ

Bahama Breeze was founded in Orlando and grew to 43 locations by 2024. However, the brand has struggled in recent years, leading to the closure of approximately one-third of its locations last May. Darden's review of Bahama Breeze's brand positioning revealed that it lagged behind other more successful chains within its portfolio, prompting the company to explore strategic alternatives, including potential sales or conversions.

Bahama Breeze blows away: Caribbean-themed restaurant to shutter operations

The decision to close Bahama Breeze comes amid broader challenges facing casual dining establishments. Inflation and a decline in consumer confidence have led to reduced disposable income for many diners, impacting their dining choices. While Darden's other brands, such as Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, have reported positive sales growth, Bahama Breeze has consistently underperformed, with a reported 8% decline in sales from the previous year.

Bahama Breeze to close last restaurant in NJ

Darden stated, “The conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio,” emphasizing its commitment to supporting affected employees by placing them in other roles within the company. The company does not anticipate that these closures or conversions will have a material impact on its financial results.

Darden to wind down Bahama Breeze

Critics of the decision argue that the closure of Bahama Breeze reflects a broader trend of casual dining chains struggling to adapt to changing consumer preferences. The rise of fast-casual dining options has drawn customers away from traditional sit-down restaurants, leading to a challenging environment for brands like Bahama Breeze.

Bahama Breeze blows away: Caribbean-themed restaurant to shutter operations

The remaining Bahama Breeze locations will continue to operate until their respective closures or conversions begin. Darden plans to complete the conversions over the next 12 to 18 months, with specific timelines and renovation details yet to be announced.

Bahama Breeze to convert Tampa Bay locations to new concepts

• “The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio,” — Darden Restaurants

Bahama Breeze is closing all of its restaurants

• “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.” — Darden Restaurants

Bahama Breeze is closing all of its restaurants

This strategic shift marks the end of an era for Bahama Breeze, a brand that once thrived in the casual dining landscape but has struggled to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving market.

Bahama Breeze to close last restaurant in NJ