TUKWILA, WA — The tropical getaway at the Westfield Southcenter Mall is coming to an end. Darden Restaurants officially announced on February 3, 2026, that it will retire the Bahama Breeze brand entirely. As part of this nationwide exit, the Tukwila location—the brand’s only site in Washington and the entire Pacific Northwest—is slated for permanent closure.
End of an Era in the West: Washington’s Only Bahama Breeze to Close Permanently
The restaurant will officially cease operations on April 5, 2026, marking the final sunset for the Caribbean-themed chain in the region.
The Final Sunset in Tukwila
While Darden plans to convert 14 other Bahama Breeze locations into different concepts like Yard House or Olive Garden, the Tukwila site was not selected for a transition. According to a WARN notice filed with the state, the decision to close rather than convert was based on the "operating environment" at and around this specific location.
For more than a decade, the site at 15700 Southcenter Pkwy. has served as a local "island escape," famous for its live music, fire-roasted jerk chicken, and signature Bahamaritas. Its closure marks the brand's total departure from the West Coast.
Support for the Local Team
The closure affects 93 employees at the Tukwila location. Darden Restaurants has stated that its primary mission during these final weeks is to support these team members. The company’s support plan includes:
- Internal Transfer Opportunities: Darden aims to place as many employees as possible in roles at other nearby brands in their portfolio, such as Olive Garden or Yard House.
- Transition Assistance: Providing resources and guidance to help staff navigate the shutdown of the region's only location.
"Please know that this closure is not a reflection of the hard work and contributions you made every day... Rather, the decision was made based on the operating environment at and around this location." — Darden Human Resources (via WARN notice)
"Please know that this closure is not a reflection of the hard work and contributions you made every day... Rather, the decision was made based on the operating environment at and around this location." — Darden Human Resources (via WARN notice)Final Call for an Island Escape
Pacific Northwest residents have until Sunday, April 5, 2026, to enjoy one last tropical meal in Tukwila. After that date, the Caribbean-inspired era in Washington will officially come to a close.
