Red Lobster is closing more locations across the US
Red Lobster continues to face challenges even after filing for bankruptcy, rebuilding, and rebranding. After several restaurant closures, the chain has announced even more restaurants on its chopping block for 2026.
The bleeding hasn't stopped
Despite Red Lobster shrinking from more than 700 locations before its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2024 to 540 locations, it looks like the bleeding hasn't stopped.
A flurry of closures in early to mid-2026 had people thinking that was the end of the story, but that's not the case.
The chain has now confirmed a handful of closures for 2026, including locations in New York, Georgia, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Michigan, Texas, California, and more.
Red Lobster is pulling out all the stops to boost sales
The chain seems to be pulling out all the stops to attract customers and boost its sales. One of its most popular promos, the "Ultimate Endless Shrimp," had a test trial in April and is now returning once again.
What makes this move interesting is that the promo was widely blamed for contributing to the chain's estimated $19 million loss leading up to its bankruptcy filing.
The hope is that the results are very different this time around.
Some closures hit harder than others
For employees, a closure is bad no matter the location, but some hit harder than others. In May, Red Lobster closed its Tallahassee, Florida location. This was its longest continuously operating restaurant, having been in business for 56 years.
Another major hit was the closure of its Times Square location, which had been in business for 23 years. The company blamed this closure on ongoing construction that severely hurt foot traffic.
No word on when the closures will stop
Right now, the company isn't commenting on whether this will be the end of the closures. One thing is for sure: if you're a fan of Red Lobster, it may be wise to visit in the near future since you don't know what may happen.
Source: Inc.
