Red Lobster

Red Lobster is a well-established seafood restaurant chain that began in 1968, when Bill Darden and Charley Woodsby opened the first location in Lakeland, Florida. Their goal was to bring quality seafood to communities far from the coast, and the concept quickly resonated with diners. Within two years, Red Lobster expanded to several locations across Florida, setting the stage for national growth after being acquired by General Mills in 1970. The brand became known for its approachable seafood menu and signature Cheddar Bay Biscuits, which remain a staple today.

As of November 2025, Red Lobster operates approximately 545 restaurants worldwide, with most locations in the United States and a notable presence in Canada, Mexico, Japan, Ecuador, and Thailand. The company’s headquarters is in Orlando, Florida. Over the years, Red Lobster has experienced several ownership changes and, most recently, emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2024. Now under RL Investor Holdings, the company has closed more than 50 underperforming locations and is prioritizing operational efficiency and profitability across its existing footprint.

While Red Lobster is not currently pursuing aggressive expansion, it continues to evaluate selective opportunities in established markets and remains open to strategic relocations and remodels. The chain is focused on revitalizing its core seafood offerings and has introduced new menu promotions, such as the "Ultimate SpendLESS Shrimp" in September 2025. Red Lobster’s enduring popularity, recognizable brand, and proven full-service restaurant format make it a consistent draw for retail centers and mixed-use developments. The company’s cautious growth posture, coupled with its broad geographic reach, positions it as a credible anchor tenant in today’s evolving casual dining landscape.