Bahama Breeze at Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove has closed permanently, marking the end of the Caribbean-themed chain’s presence on Long Island.
The restaurant closure — confirmed Thursday by the restaurant’s Google listing, which now states the location is “permanently closed” — follows a wave of reported shutdowns of Bahama Breeze locations across the country this week. News outlets in cities such as Memphis; Las Vegas; and Naples, Florida, have similarly reported closures of the once-popular chain.
Bahama Breeze restaurants, owned by Orlando-based Darden Restaurants, is known for its laid-back, tropical atmosphere, island-inspired menu, and colorful cocktails.
The Smith Haven Mall location had been a fixture on the property’s Ring Road for more than a decade, offering visitors a beachy diversion from the suburban routine.
As of Thursday, Darden Restaurants, which operates more than 2,100 restaurants, including Olive Garden and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, had not issued a public statement regarding the closures.
The nearest remaining Bahama Breeze locations are in New Jersey.
Top photo: Google Maps
