Red Lobster in Tallahassee Closing May 24 After 56 Years

A Red Lobster restaurant in Tallahassee, Florida, that has operated continuously for 56 years will close permanently on May 24. The location on North Monroe Street, which opened in October 1970, is the chain’s oldest continuously running site.

Company officials confirmed the closure, citing the specific location’s business performance and lease terms as part of a normal evaluation process. A spokesperson said the restaurant held a special place in the company’s history and expressed gratitude to the guests and team members who supported it over decades.

The closure occurs amid broader financial challenges for the national chain. Red Lobster filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2024, leading to the closure of approximately 130 restaurants. Executives have pointed to a costly "Endless Shrimp" promotion, which reportedly contributed to significant quarterly losses, as a factor in the company’s recent struggles. While the promotion has since been revived in a revised, temporary form, the company has been reviewing its real estate footprint to cut costs.

The Tallahassee location’s impending shutdown has sparked an emotional response from the community. For many residents, the...