Oldest Red Lobster Continuously Operating Location to Close in Tallahassee

The Red Lobster restaurant on North Monroe Street in Tallahassee, Florida, is set to close after more than half a century of operation. This location holds the title of the chain’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. Red Lobster confirmed that the final day of service will be May 24.

A spokesperson for Red Lobster stated: This restaurant holds a special place in Red Lobster’s history and has been a meaningful part of the community for decades. They added that the closure is part of ongoing assessments of restaurant performance and lease agreements.

The acting general manager expressed regret about the closure, noting the dedication of their exceptional team. Throughout its years in Tallahassee, the restaurant has received support from both guests and team members.

Red Lobster closed numerous locations before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2024. Experts have pointed to the permanent implementation of the Endless Shrimp promotion as a contributing factor to financial issues. Additionally, a previous decision in 2014 to sell the chain’s real estate led to burdensome lease obligations, according to Fox Business.

Following bankruptcy, Red Lobster introduced new menu items to draw in customers. The menu now includes dishes like lobster pappardelle pasta, bacon-wrapped sea scallops, lobster bisque, and lemon basil mahi. However, the $20 all-you-can-eat offering posed operational challenges.

RL Investor Holdings LLC acquired Red Lobster in 2024 post-bankruptcy. Damola Adamolekun, formerly of P.F. Chang’s, was appointed as the new CEO. Adamolekun acknowledged that the new ownership inherited a troubled brand and aimed to optimize operations.

Endless Shrimp returned to selected locations last month. Adamolekun clarified that this promotion would remain limited, as stated to Fox13.