NYC Red Lobster Flagship to Close This June

Red Lobster is set to close its flagship Times Square restaurant in New York City, bringing an end to its 23-year presence at one of the world’s busiest tourist destinations. The seafood chain confirmed that the location at 5 Times Square will permanently shut its doors on June 14.

According to company officials, years of nearby construction significantly reduced foot traffic and hurt business at the restaurant, making continued operations financially impossible. The restaurant, located at the corner of 41st Street and Seventh Avenue, had once been a popular destination for visitors, office workers, and theatergoers.

Despite the closure, Red Lobster said it remains committed to supporting employees affected by the decision. All staff members at the Times Square location will be offered transfers to other Red Lobster restaurants, along with additional compensation to help during the transition.

In a statement, the company thanked both employees and loyal customers who contributed to the restaurant’s long history and success.

Since opening in 2003, the three-level restaurant served as a showcase location for the national seafood chain and gained attention through promotional events, including a free lobster giveaway in 2023.

The shutdown follows ongoing financial challenges for Red Lobster after its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in May 2024. More than 100 locations have closed nationwide as the company works to reduce costs and improve performance. Although Red Lobster has emerged from bankruptcy, company officials acknowledge that more underperforming locations could still face closure.

The Times Square closure also follows the recent shutdown of the chain’s oldest continuously operating restaurant in Tallahassee, Florida, which closed after 56 years in business. Red Lobster ended 2025 with more than 500 restaurants across the United States but reported declining annual sales