Full Breakdown
Red Lobster Closes Its Sole Hawaii Location After 32 Years Amid Bankruptcy and Corporate Restructuring
6/26/2026, 1:22:31 PM
Waikiki Closure Ends Red Lobster’s Hawaiian Presence
On June 21, 2026, Red Lobster permanently shut its Waikiki restaurant at 1765 Ala Moana Boulevard, ending the chain’s 32-year presence in Hawaii. The ground-floor Ilikai Marina location was the only Red Lobster in the state.
Background: Chapter 11 and Nationwide Closures
Red Lobster entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2024, citing high inflation, rent pressures, and losses from an “endless shrimp” promotion. Since filing, the chain has closed more than 100 U.S. sites, with some reports counting 130 closures. A September 2024 reorganization transferred ownership to a lender group led by Fortress Investment Group.
Key Players: Red Lobster, Thai Union, Fortress Investment Group
Thai Union, a Bangkok seafood firm, acquired a controlling stake in 2020 and is named in a creditor lawsuit alleging self-dealing. Fortress Investment Group now controls the board and appointed Damola Adamolekun as CEO to steer a turnaround.
Data Snapshot
- Waikiki tenure: 32 years (1994-2026)
- Address: 1765 Ala Moana Boulevard, Waikiki, HI
- Nationwide closures: >100 (Reuters) or 130 (The Sun)
- “Endless shrimp” loss: $11 million in one quarter
- Creditor claim: ~$295 million owed at bankruptcy
Official Corporate Statement
Red Lobster’s spokesperson said the Waikiki shutdown “reflected specific decisions tied to the unique operating conditions at this restaurant.” The company added it remains “committed to making thoughtful decisions that position Red Lobster for long-term success, stability and growth,” and thanked guests and staff.
Criticism, Lawsuits, and Public Reaction
A lawsuit filed on behalf of creditors alleges Thai Union treated Red Lobster “as little more than a distribution arm for its own products,” turning the endless-shrimp deal into a $11 million loss. Social-media users expressed disappointment, posting remarks such as “So sad I love Red Lobster” and recalling “great memories” from the Waikiki venue.
Conflicting Reports on Closure Count
Reuters reports “more than 100” closures, while The Sun cites “130 locations” shuttered since the 2024 bankruptcy. Both figures appear in corporate communications, leaving the precise total unverified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As part of our normal course of business, Red Lobster continuously evaluates individual restaurant performance and lease terms and may, from time to time, choose to close select restaurants,” — Red Lobster spokesperson
- “We remain committed to making thoughtful decisions that position Red Lobster for long-term success, stability and growth,” — Red Lobster spokesperson
- “Thai Union treated the Company as little more than a distribution arm for its own products, milking whatever value it could from Red Lobster, especially as the Company became insolvent,” — Lawsuit filing
- “So sad I love Red Lobster.” — Instagram user
Outlook: Turnaround Plans
Under Adamolekun, Red Lobster has re-introduced the endless-shrimp promotion on a limited basis and is pursuing menu diversification. Fortress Investment Group’s ownership suggests ongoing restructuring, while the Waikiki closure marks the chain’s exit from the Hawaiian market.
