Florida’s restaurant industry has seen a growing number of chain shutdowns in 2026, with several once-popular brands either closing all remaining locations or rapidly disappearing from the state.
From barbecue chains to tropical-themed casual dining restaurants, the closures reflect the ongoing struggles facing the restaurant industry as companies deal with inflation, weaker consumer spending, rising labor costs, and changing dining habits.
Bahama Breeze is disappearing after nearly 30 years
One of the biggest restaurant exits impacting Florida is Bahama Breeze, the Caribbean-themed chain founded in Orlando in 1996.
Parent company Darden Restaurants announced plans earlier this year to shut down the brand entirely. Half of the remaining restaurants closed permanently in April, while the rest are expected to be converted into other Darden concepts over the next year.
At its peak, Bahama Breeze operated more than 40 locations nationwide, with Florida serving as one of its largest markets. The chain struggled with declining sales and was ultimately deemed no longer a “strategic priority” by Darden.
Smokey Bones abruptly shuts down remaining restaurants
Another major Florida-rooted chain that recently disappeared is Smokey Bones.
The barbecue chain, which was originally founded in Orlando by Darden Restaurants in 1999, abruptly shut down all remaining locations nationwide in late April following bankruptcy issues tied to parent company FAT Brands.
The company once operated more than 120 restaurants across the United States. By early 2026, only a few dozen remained before the final closures were announced.
Casual dining continues facing pressure
The closures are part of a broader shakeup affecting casual dining chains across Florida and the U.S.
Industry analysts say many legacy chains are struggling to compete as diners cut back on discretionary spending and increasingly favor fast-casual concepts, local restaurants, and delivery-focused dining options.
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