Darden Restaurants announced that Bahama Breeze will close all 28 of its remaining locations nationwide, writes Michael Klein for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The King of Prussia location will close by early April.
Darden said the decision follows a review of “strategic alternatives” for the brand, concluding that Bahama Breeze no longer fits the company’s long-term growth plans. Once home to more than 40 locations nationwide, the chain struggled in recent years as casual dining shifted toward value-driven menus, delivery, and smaller footprints.
Known for its island-inspired atmosphere and expansive menu with tropical cocktails, Bahama Breeze increasingly became a challenging fit in a changing restaurant landscape. Over the past decade, Darden steadily reduced investment and closed underperforming locations.
While Darden did not disclose how many employees are affected locally, the company said it will work to place impacted workers at nearby restaurants where possible. Within five miles of the King of Prussia Bahama Breeze, Darden operates multiple brands, including Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Yard House, Eddie V’s, and a LongHorn Steakhouse in West Norriton.
The closure marks the end of a two-decade run for the King of Prussia restaurant — and another sign of how quickly the dining scene continues to evolve.
To learn more about Darden’s strategy and a King of Prussia without Bahama Breeze, visit The Philadelphia Inquirer.
