Bahama Breeze, the Caribbean-inspired casual dining chain owned by Darden Restaurants, has permanently closed five of its Florida locations as part of a total of 15 closures across eight states.
The move comes amid shifting consumer preferences, rising costs, and ongoing adjustments in the restaurant industry.
The Florida locations affected are:
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3989 Plaza Blvd, Gainesville
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2088 9th St N, Naples
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1786 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach
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2750 Sawgrass Mills Cir, Sunrise
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3339 N Federal Hwy, Oakland Park
While these closures mark a significant change, several other Bahama Breeze restaurants remain open across Florida, including the popular Pembroke Pines location. That spot has long been a favorite hangout for Jamaican and other Caribbean communities living in Broward County.
Bahama Breeze has built a strong connection with Caribbean Americans in South Florida, offering a taste of the islands with its Caribbean-inspired menu, tropical cocktails, and lively atmosphere. The Kendall location, for example, has hosted events and performances featuring local reggae acts like Pluto Shervington, who died in 2024.
Darden Restaurants, which also owns Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, confirmed the closures on Friday but did not specify detailed reasons.
“We continually evaluate the performance of all our restaurants. … Closing a restaurant is a difficult choice because it impacts our team members and guests,” Darden spokesperson Kiara Buckner told Newsweek. “After thorough analysis and careful consideration, we made the decision to close 15 Bahama Breeze locations. However, we believe this is the right decision because it will allow Bahama Breeze to focus on its highest performing restaurants and strengthen the brand’s overall performance.”
Other closures took place in Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, and Tennessee.
Darden said it is working to relocate impacted employees to other company-owned restaurants where possible, offering severance packages for those who are unable or choose not to move.
Founded in 1996, Bahama Breeze has been recognized for its Caribbean-themed menu, tropical cocktails, and live entertainment. As of March 2025, Darden operated 43 Bahama Breeze restaurants nationwide.
