Red Robin, the casual dining chain known for gourmet burgers and bottomless fries, is quietly shrinking its U.S. footprint — and more closures could be on the way. As the company works to stabilize its business, dozens of underperforming locations are now on the chopping block, raising concerns for diners and employees alike.
Why Red Robin is closing locations
The planned closures are part of a long-term turnaround strategy aimed at cutting costs and improving profitability. Red Robin has acknowledged that some restaurants consistently lose money due to high labor costs, rising food prices, and weaker customer traffic. Rather than renewing leases at struggling locations, the company is choosing to walk away.
Executives have indicated that approximately 70 restaurants could close over the next several years, with a portion expected to shut down this year alone.
Which locations are at risk?
Red Robin has not released a complete list of restaurants scheduled to close, leaving many communities uncertain about the future of their local locations. Closures often occur when leases expire, so restaurants in older buildings or slower-traffic areas may face a higher risk.
Recent shutdowns in several states suggest that no region is entirely immune. The states with the most Red Robin locations might be targets, though that’s not by any means an indicator (Minnesota had only four locations, and one of them was closed). The states with the most Red Robin locations are, in order:
- California
- Washington
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
What this means for employees and communities
For workers, closures can mean sudden job loss and little time to prepare. For communities, especially smaller cities and suburbs, the loss of a sit-down chain restaurant can leave empty buildings and fewer dining options.
Fans of the brand often learn about closures only days—or even hours—before doors permanently close.
Is Red Robin going away?
Despite the closures, Red Robin says it remains committed to strengthening its remaining restaurants. The company continues to invest in menu updates, promotions, and operational improvements at profitable locations.
Still, as casual dining chains across the country downsize, many Red Robin fans are left wondering: could their city be next?
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