Last Call for Caribbean Vibes
CHERRY HILL, N.J. — The last remaining Bahama Breeze in New Jersey is officially shutting its doors. Darden Restaurants, the parent company behind the Caribbean-inspired chain, announced on Tuesday that it will discontinue the brand entirely, marking the end of an era for the popular dining spot at the Cherry Hill Mall.+1
According to the announcement, the Cherry Hill location at 2000 Route 38 is scheduled to permanently close on or before April 5, 2026.
End of the Line for the Brand
The Cherry Hill closure is part of a wider corporate decision by Darden Restaurants to shutter all 28 remaining Bahama Breeze locations nationwide. The company stated that the brand was “no longer a strategic priority” for its portfolio, which includes major industry players like Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and Yard House.
The corporate plan divides the remaining restaurants into two groups:
- Permanent Closures: 14 locations, including Cherry Hill, will close permanently without immediate plans for conversion.
- Conversions: The other 14 locations will be renovated and rebranded into other Darden concepts over the next 12 to 18 months.
Unfortunately for local fans, the Cherry Hill restaurant is listed among those closing for good, meaning there are no current plans to immediately flip the building into another Darden-owned eatery.
A Local Favorite Fades Away
For years, the Cherry Hill Bahama Breeze served as a go-to spot for happy hours, tropical cocktails, and island-themed dishes like coconut shrimp and jerk chicken. Its prominent location at the Cherry Hill Mall made it a staple for shoppers and locals alike.
The writing had been on the wall for the brand in New Jersey. In May 2025, Darden abruptly closed four other Garden State locations in Paramus, Toms River, Wayne, and Woodbridge. That move left Cherry Hill as the sole survivor in the state—a title it will hold for only a few more months.
What Comes Next?
With the April 5th deadline approaching, patrons have a limited window to visit for one last “legendary island cocktail.”
Because the Cherry Hill site is not slated for automatic conversion, the building—accessible from the mall parking lot—will likely hit the real estate market. Given its prime location between other Darden properties like Seasons 52 and Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, it remains a valuable piece of commercial real estate, though its future tenant remains unknown.
Darden Restaurants has stated its primary focus during this transition will be supporting employees, aiming to place as many team members as possible in roles within their other local restaurant brands.
Leave a Reply