The first Outback Steakhouse in Naples, a cherished local hangout, closed permanently on October 26. Located at 4910 U.S. 41 N., its closure is part of a plan by the Outback chain to prefer contemporary places over older ones.
Outback’s parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, decided to close long-standing locations like Naples. Their approach is to open newer restaurants in flourishing areas. Nearby, new spots in South Naples and Founders Square are poised to attract eager customers from bustling neighborhoods.
The closures indicate a bigger change within the brand. The Naples location is among several others closing on the same day, in cities such as Birmingham, AL, and Baton Rouge, LA. This continues a decision made in February to shut down 41 underperforming locations…