The nationwide wave of restaurant closures has officially hit the heart of New York City. After an impressive 23-year run, the massive Red Lobster in Times Square is permanently shutting its doors on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Located at 5 Times Square since 2003, this bustling seafood haven has served countless tourists and theatergoers. However, the beloved corner spot is no longer viable for the massive chain.
Why the Times Square location is shutting down
According to the company, extensive and prolonged building construction has severely impacted the restaurant’s visibility, access, and overall foot traffic.
The closure isn’t just about a drop in hungry tourists, though. The property is currently slated for a massive conversion into residential housing, making continued restaurant operations impossible. On top of that, the location faced a staggering annual rent demand of approximately $2.2 million…