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Bloomin’ Brands, purveyors of popular restaurant chains that include Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba’s Italian Grill, among others, has announced the closure of 41 underperforming restaurants across the U.S. and beyond.
Among them were Long Island’s only two Carrabba’s restaurants, located in Smithtown and Central Islip. The last day of business for each location was Friday, Feb. 23.
“Closing a restaurant is never easy,” said Elizabeth Daly, a Bloomin’ Brands spokesperson. “This was a business decision that is not a reflection of the management or staff. All employees will receive a severance package.
“We appreciate the community’s support over the years.”
The Tampa-based hospitality group also operates Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, along with the fast-casual Aussie Grill, described as being inspired by Outback.
It has nearly 1,500 restaurants worldwide, according to reports.
“This decision considered a variety of factors, including sales and traffic, trade areas and the investments that would have to be made to improve the restaurants,” CEO Dave Deno said in a statement to the press.
The company does, however, plan to invest elsewhere, according to this report in The Nation’s Restaurant News — with an emphasis on takeout and off-premises catering.
Outback’s six Long Island locations are still open, along with the one in nearby Bayside, Queens.
“The Outback locations will remain open,” Daly said.
As for the island’s Carrabba’s, the Smithtown location at 730 Smithtown Bypass was already being cleaned out as of Monday morning. The brand was founded in 1986 by two family members in Houston. Click here to read their story. Check back for more updates from Bloomin’ Brands.
Top: The now-closed Carrabba’s location at 730 Smithtown Bypass. (Credit: Nick Esposito)
