Darden Restaurants revealed Tuesday that it plans to wind down its Bahama Breeze brand, bringing an end to nearly three decades of Caribbean-themed dining. The Orlando-based restaurant company said it will permanently close half of the chain’s footprint, shutting down 14 of Bahama Breeze’s 28 locations. The remaining restaurants will be transitioned into other concepts within Darden’s portfolio. According to the company, the locations slated for permanent closure will continue serving guests through April 5. For the 14 restaurants being converted, Darden said the process will take an estimated 12 to 18 months. Those locations will remain open during most of the transition, with only temporary closures expected if renovations are required. Darden did not disclose which of its brands will replace Bahama Breeze at the converted sites. Its portfolio includes Olive Garden, Yard House, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Eddie V’s, and several other concepts. In a statement, the company explained its strategy, saying, “The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio. Going forward, the primary focus will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio.” Geographically, most of the restaurants being converted are located in Florida, with additional sites in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The locations scheduled for permanent closure are spread across Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington. Despite the brand shakeup, Darden’s broader business appears steady. Shares of the company are up more than 14 percent so far this year, signaling continued investor confidence as it reshapes its restaurant lineup.

ALT: a turtle is swimming in a coral reef surrounded by seaweed