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Darden to Wind Down Bahama Breeze, Closing 14 Sites and Converting 14

The Olive Garden owner is retiring the 30-year-old chain following a strategic review.

Overview

  • Fourteen Bahama Breeze restaurants will close permanently, operating through April 5, 2026.
  • Fourteen remaining locations will be converted to other Darden concepts over the next 12 to 18 months, with temporary shutdowns as needed during renovations.
  • Darden has not disclosed which of its brands will replace the conversion sites, many of which are in Florida.
  • The company says it will prioritize placing affected employees in roles across its portfolio.
  • Darden does not expect the closures and conversions to have a material impact on its financial results after previously downsizing the brand in 2025.