Employees at 15 Bahama Breeze Island Grille restaurants reportedly showed up to work this week and no longer had jobs. The chain’s parent company, Darden Restaurants, abruptly closed locations across the country in a move that blindsided many. The Caribbean-inspired restaurant is known for its fruity cocktails and tropical fare. But it appears Bahama Breeze is the latest restaurant chain to feel the pain of tough economic times.
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Darden Restaurants spokesperson Kara Buckner confirmed closures to USA Today.
“We continually evaluate the performance of all our restaurants,” she said. “Closing a restaurant is a difficult choice because it impacts our team members and guests. However, we believe this is the right decision because it will allow Bahama Breeze to focus on its highest performing restaurants and strengthen the brand’s overall performance.”
Bahama Breeze Closed 11 Locations in Eight States
Bahama Breeze permanently shuttered these locations
- 3989 Plaza Blvd, Gainesville, Florida
- 2088 9th St N, Naples, Florida
- 1786 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida
- 2750 Sawgrass Mills Cir, Sunrise, Florida
- 3339 N Federal Hwy, Oakland Park, Florida
- 406 E Golf Rd, Schaumburg, Illinois
- 413 Middlesex Rd, Tyngsborough, Massachusetts
- 539 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy, Michigan
- 375 Hughes Center Dr, Las Vegas, Nevada
- 520 Woodbridge Center Dr, Woodbridge, New Jersey
- 1201 Hooper Ave, Toms River, New Jersey
- 101 NJ-23, Wayne, New Jersey
- 1600 Bergen Town Center, Paramus, New Jersey
- 612 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove, New York
- 2830 N Germantown Pkwy, Memphis, Tennessee
The chain continues to operate 29 locations across Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington.
According to the company’s website, “Bahama Breeze offers all your favorites: burgers, salads, seafood, chicken—all with our island flair. From trying jicama or plantains to jerk chicken pasta, you can enjoy the islands one taste at a time, discovering new flavors and favorites along the way. If our Caribbean-inspired recipes sound delicious but you’re not sure you’re ready to explore, ask us about the ingredients or preparation. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of Caribbean cuisine. Most importantly, we want you to enjoy whatever you choose from our flavorful menu.”
This story’s featured image is by Jaimieandkyleshootstock via Shutterstock.
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