Bahama Breeze has abruptly closed 15 locations, or more than one-third of its chain, as a sharp decline in consumer sentiment hammers fast-casual restaurants nationwide. The closures include four locations in New Jersey and the sole Long Island location.
The decision is intended to allow Bahama Breeze to focus on its highest-performing restaurants and strengthen the brand’s overall performance, according to owner Darden Restaurants. However, this move comes as consumer sentiment has worsened, with a decline in April that reached its second-lowest reading on record.
Other casual dining chains have also turned to restaurant closures to stay afloat. Red Robin plans to close 70 locations after recording a $32.4 million loss, while TGI Fridays closed 12 locations across the US in October, including three in New York state. In May, Red Lobster abruptly sealed the doors at 50 restaurants nationwide.
The decline in consumer sentiment is linked to concerns over President Trump’s trade war and rising inflation expectations, which have grown more dire. Retail spending slowed in April after customers had rushed to front-load their shopping in March ahead of tariffs.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/05/19/business/popular-caribbean-inspired-restaurant-chain-abruptly-shutters-15-locations