Darden Restaurants considers selling Bahama Breeze chain

In the United States, the future of the Bahama Breeze restaurant chain has become uncertain following the closure of 15 locations, which was announced last month. Darden Restaurants, which owns several dining brands, conducted a review, concluding that Bahama Breeze was no longer a priority for their portfolio. During an earnings call on June 20, 2025, Darden's President and CEO, Ricardo Cardenas, mentioned that the company is evaluating 'strategic alternatives' for the chain, which could involve selling all locations or converting them to other brands in their lineup. Cardenas stated that Bahama Breeze's brand presence no longer met the criteria for Darden's business strategy. Created in the 1990s, Bahama Breeze is recognized for its Caribbean-inspired cuisine and tropical atmosphere. With this shift, Darden aims to ensure that team members have better growth opportunities, which they believe can be achieved under new ownership. Darden currently operates several well-known brands like Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, and Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. The decision to reassess Bahama Breeze's future comes alongside a report of increased sales for Darden, showcasing a successful fiscal quarter with $3.27 billion in revenue. The announcement of potential changes reflects Darden's strategic focus on its more profitable dining establishments, indicating a desire to streamline operations and maximize shareholder value. Bahama Breeze locations remain active as of now, primarily situated in Florida and several other states, including Delaware, Georgia, and Michigan. Despite the closures, the company assures that these strategic moves will not materially impact their overall financial results. Overall, the possible change in ownership or brand conversion for Bahama Breeze points to a pivotal moment for the chain that has provided a vibrant dining experience since its inception. Darden's preference for brands that align with its strategic goals suggests a determined effort to enhance operational efficiency and foster growth within their remaining restaurant portfolio.