Red Lobster's Palm Desert location to shut down after 14 years of service

A Red Lobster restaurant in Palm Desert, California, announced it will close in early September, ending a fourteen-year presence that began in 2012. Staff learned of the decision on Monday and were told the final day would be September 6 or 7. The location featured the chain’s signature live lobster tank and has been a community fixture.

The closure aligns with CEO Damola Ademolekun’s strategy to shutter underperforming restaurants to reduce expenses and repair a damaged brand. The company noted that it regularly reviews performance and lease terms when deciding to close or relocate sites. Customers can still visit other Red Lobster branches in San Bernardino and Temecula, and the chain recently revived its Endless Shrimp promotion despite earlier financial concerns.