VIRGINIA — The tropical landscape is changing for Virginia diners. As part of Darden Restaurants’ nationwide retirement of the Bahama Breeze brand, the Commonwealth is facing a split outcome: one location will shut its doors forever this spring, while another has been saved for a future transformation.
VIRGINIA — The tropical landscape is changing for Virginia diners. As part of Darden Restaurants’ nationwide retirement of the Bahama Breeze brand, the Commonwealth is facing a split outcome: one location will shut its doors forever this spring, while another has been saved for a future transformation.Virginia’s Island Shift: One Closure and One New Beginning in the Commonwealth
While the Bahama Breeze name will eventually vanish from Virginia, the impact varies significantly between Woodbridge and Virginia Beach.
Permanent Closure in Woodbridge
For fans of the tropical vibes at Potomac Mills, the news is final. The Woodbridge location is on the list of 14 sites nationwide slated for permanent closure.
- Closing Date: April 5, 2026
- Location: 2714 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge, VA
After nearly two decades of serving jerk chicken and Bahamaritas to shoppers and locals alike, this site will not be rebranded by Darden and will cease operations entirely this April.
A New Concept for Virginia Beach
In contrast, the Virginia Beach location has been identified by Darden as a "high-value site." While it will eventually drop the Bahama Breeze name, the doors aren't closing for good. Instead, it is one of 14 locations being converted into another brand within the Darden portfolio—which includes names like Yard House, Olive Garden, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
- Location: 4554 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA
- The Transition: This site will continue to operate as Bahama Breeze for the time being. The conversion process is expected to take place over the next 12 to 18 months, with temporary closures only occurring when remodeling begins.
Support for the Commonwealth Teams
Darden Restaurants has pledged to prioritize the employees affected by these changes, particularly at the closing Woodbridge site. The company’s goal is to retain as much talent as possible by:
- Internal Relocation: Moving staff to other Darden brands in the Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads areas.
- Ongoing Placement: Offering roles within nearby sister restaurants to minimize the impact on local team members.
"The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio... our focus will continue to be on supporting team members." — Darden Restaurants News Release
Final Call at Potomac Mills
If you want one last taste of the island in Northern Virginia, you have until Sunday, April 5, 2026, to visit the Woodbridge location. Residents in Virginia Beach can continue to enjoy their favorites for a bit longer while awaiting news on which Darden brand will eventually take over the space.
