Delaware’s Bonefish Grill at Concord Mall Closes as Parent Company Shuts Down 41 Restaurants
Delaware residents bid farewell to their only Bonefish Grill location as the restaurant closed its doors for the last time on February 23rd. The casual seafood chain, situated at Concord Mall, was one of 41 restaurants shut down by its parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, based in Tampa, Florida. This move comes as part of Bloomin’ Brands’ plan to close numerous restaurants across its portfolio following its year-end earnings call.
Bloomin’ Brands is known for its popular restaurant brands, including Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, and Aussie Grill by Outback. The decision to close these underperforming locations was made after a thorough review of the company’s asset base. “The majority of these restaurants were older assets with leases from the ‘90s and early 2000s,” explained Bloomin’ Brands CEO David Deno.
Interestingly, the Bonefish Grill at Concord Mall does not fit the profile of the underperforming locations targeted for closure. It opened in 2014, relatively recently compared to the other restaurants. However, the mall itself has faced challenges in retaining tenants due to various revitalization plans in recent years. In 2020, the mall lost its anchor tenant Sears, and more recently gained attention nationwide for the discovery of a perfectly preserved Burger King from 1987.
While the closure of Bonefish Grill is undoubtedly disappointing for seafood enthusiasts in Delaware, there is a silver lining. Concord Mall will soon welcome a new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Tex-Mex Tequila, a restaurant specializing in fajitas and margaritas.
The closure of Bonefish Grill also affected other locations in the region. A Carrabba’s Italian Grill at Springfield Mall in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, also closed on the same day. Additionally, another nearby Carrabba’s location in West Chester, Pennsylvania, shut its doors in the fall of 2023.
Bloomin’ Brands emphasized that the decision to close these restaurants was purely a business one and not a reflection of the management or staff. Some employees will have the opportunity to transfer to other locations, while those who cannot will receive a severance package.
For Delaware residents who still crave Bonefish Grill’s delectable seafood dishes, the nearest location is now in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. As for Carrabba’s Italian Grill enthusiasts, they can visit the nearest branch in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.
The closure of Bonefish Grill at Concord Mall serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the restaurant industry. Despite the disappointment, Delaware residents can look forward to new dining experiences and continue to support their favorite local establishments.
Matthew Korfhage, a business and development reporter in the Delaware region, covers all aspects related to land and money. From openings and closings to construction and local corporations, he keeps readers informed about the economic developments in the First State. To stay updated on the latest news about stores, restaurants, and developments in Delaware, join the Facebook group “What’s Going There in Delaware” and subscribe to the “What’s Going There in Delaware” newsletter.
For any tips or insults (hopefully more tips than insults), you can reach Matthew Korfhage at [email protected].