Darden Restaurants will permanently close 14 Bahama Breeze locations and convert the remaining 14 into other brands within its portfolio, concluding a strategic review of the Caribbean-themed chain.
The Orlando-based company said it no longer considers the Bahama Breeze brand a strategic priority.
The company operates a portfolio that includes Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Chuy’s, Seasons 52 and Eddie V’s.
Tampa Bay locations slated for conversion
In Tampa Bay, two Bahama Breeze restaurants are among the locations expected to be converted into other Darden concepts.
The locations include the restaurant at 3045 N. Rocky Point Drive East in Tampa and the Brandon location at 805 Brandon Town Center Drive.
Darden did not disclose which brands would replace Bahama Breeze at either site.
The company said the sites are located in established commercial areas that can support multiple restaurant brands.
Both locations will continue operating as Bahama Breeze until conversion work begins.
Any temporary closures related to remodeling will be announced later.
Closures expected by early April
The 14 locations designated for permanent closure are expected to continue operating through April 5, 2026.
Those closures include several Florida restaurants, along with locations in Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington state.
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Darden said it is focused on supporting affected employees at closing locations.
The company plans to place as many team members as possible into roles across its broader restaurant portfolio.
Conversion timeline spans up to 18 months
The remaining 14 Bahama Breeze locations will be converted over the next 12 to 18 months.
Both Tampa Bay locations are expected to remain in operation during the transition period, with conversion timelines extending into 2027.
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Details on the scope of renovations, conversion costs and construction schedules were not disclosed.
Limited financial impact expected
Darden said it does not expect the closures or conversions to have a material impact on its financial results.
For Tampa Bay, the changes center on two established restaurant sites that are expected to transition to new concepts over the next year.