Bahama Breeze Closes All Restaurants, Darden to Convert 14 Locations - DRI

[Para 1: The Lead] Bahama Breeze, a Caribbean-themed dining chain, is closing all 28 of its locations by April 5, 2026, due to poor performance. Darden Restaurants, parent of Bahama Breeze and other brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, announced the closures. Darden plans to convert 14 locations to other brands over the next 12 to 18 months. [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] Darden reported that half of the locations will close entirely, while the other half will be converted. Locations in Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, and two in Pennsylvania, along with five in Florida, will close. The remaining 14 locations, including 10 around Orlando, Florida, will be converted to other Darden brands. Darden stated that the sites are ideal for its portfolio, focusing on team member support and placement within the Darden family. Darden’s stock has seen an 8% increase this year, reflecting investor reaction to the strategic moves.