COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) - A long-standing Columbus dining fixture has permanently closed its doors.

Red Lobster’s original location in the city, situated at 1425 13th Street, shut down in recent days after 55 years of continuous operation. The restaurant first welcomed guests in June 1971.

Ten years ago, the restaurant threw a big celebration for its 45th anniversary.

A notice posted on the front entrance redirects customers seeking seafood and the chain’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits to the remaining location at Adams Farm Drive in Columbus Park Crossing.

An automated phone message for the 13th Street restaurant confirms the permanent closure:

“This location is closed. We would like to thank our guests for their loyalty over the years and look forward to serving you at a different location.”

The shutdown follows the chain’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection filing in May 2024.

Although the company successfully emerged from bankruptcy under new ownership later that year, reports indicate the refreshed management team is continuing to shutter select underperforming locations across the country.

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