How many Red Lobster restaurants are left in Alabama?

Red Lobster continues to refine its footprint, signaling further downsizing efforts as the seafood chain looks to shed underperforming locations across the country. According to company reports, the strategy focuses on long-term stability for the iconic brand.

The End of an Era in Vestavia Hills

A significant chapter for the chain in Alabama concluded this past Saturday with the permanent closure of the Vestavia Hills Red Lobster located at 1030 Montgomery Hwy. Having served the community since 1974, it stood as the oldest location in the state.

Company Outlook and Leadership

Red Lobster spokesperson confirmed the closures are a part of a standard business evaluation process, weighing individual performance and lease terms. CEO Damola Adamolekun, in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, noted that while there are positive signs, the new management inherited a damaged brand that requires significant repair. The chain continues to prune its portfolio, a process that saw approximately 130 locations close during the 2024 bankruptcy proceedings—including sites in Tuscaloosa, Auburn, Decatur, Huntsville, and Mobile.

Current Standing in Alabama

Despite the recent contraction, there are still seven Red Lobster restaurants operating in Alabama. Diners can find the remaining locations in:

• Trussville
• Gadsden
• Montgomery
• Oxford
• Dothan
• Huntsville
• Florence

Interestingly, the brand is seeing a resurgence in some areas with sales up 10% this year. The company even brought back its famous Endless Shrimp promotion, a move that previously drew scrutiny during its bankruptcy exit. Founded in 1968 in Lakeland, Florida, the chain is also seeing closures elsewhere, including the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Tallahassee, Florida, which announced it is shutting its doors after 56 years.