Popular Burger Chain Eyes Closures—Is Louisiana’s Last Location at Risk?

SLIDELL, La. (KPEL News) - A popular casual dining chain known for its gourmet burgers and bottomless fries is planning to close roughly a dozen underperforming restaurants across the country as part of a larger effort to restructure its business.

But with just one store left in the state of Louisiana, is Red Robin planning to exit the state entirely? Changes to the menu, cost-cutting measures, and more could play a major role in the decision.

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What’s Behind the Closures?

The decision to shutter underperforming locations comes as Red Robin continues its turnaround strategy, which includes revamping its menu over the last few years, improving operations, and cutting costs. The company is currently evaluating around 70 locations that lost a combined $6 million last year, and 10 to 15 closures are expected in 2025 alone.

Red Robin’s leadership hopes these closures will help strengthen the remaining locations, allowing them to focus on profitability and reinvest in their most successful restaurants.

How Could This Affect Louisiana?

While the casual dining restaurant used to have several locations around the Bayou State, most of those have already been shuttered. While the company hasn’t officially announced which locations are on the chopping block, Louisiana's lone remaining location, Slidell, could be at risk.

The chain did have locations in several cities, including Lafayette and Baton Rouge. However, shifting economics forced those stores to close.

The Bigger Picture for Casual Dining

Red Robin isn’t alone in making tough decisions about its brick-and-mortar locations. The casual dining sector has been dealing with rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and increased competition from fast-casual and takeout-focused restaurants.

Many national chains have been forced to streamline their operations to stay competitive, and Red Robin is simply the latest in a line of restaurants adjusting to the new dining landscape.