Red Lobster's sprawling Times Square outpost is serving its final biscuits on Sunday, June 14, the company confirmed, saying heavy construction at the site has choked off access, visibility and walk-in traffic to the point that staying open is no longer financially realistic.
In a statement to ABC7 New York, Red Lobster called the move a "difficult decision" and noted that the building is slated to be converted to residential use. The company said "extensive and prolonged construction" has deeply cut into foot traffic and added that all team members are being offered transfers to other Red Lobster locations, along with additional pay to help them through the transition.
Location and company context
The Times Square restaurant is listed on Red Lobster's site at 5 Times Square in Midtown Manhattan. The closure comes as the chain pulls back nationally after filing for Chapter 11 in 2024 and shuttering dozens of underperforming restaurants, according to NBC New York.
What it means for workers and neighbors
Red Lobster told ABC7 New York that employees will be given the chance to transfer to the Red Lobster location of their choice and will receive extra pay to ease the changeover. The company thanked staff and guests for their years at the Times Square site, saying it regretted the call to close. The restaurant is scheduled to be fully vacated by June 14.
Customers looking for updates or a new spot to get their seafood fix can check the chain's locations page and the Times Square restaurant's local listing. This story will be updated if Red Lobster or the building's owner releases additional details before June 14.
