Red Lobster’s Times Square Closure Hits Your Wallet: What It Means for Your Next Cheap Date Night
Just when we thought endless shrimp was a safe bet, Red Lobster has officially closed its iconic Times Square location, and this isn't just about missing a neon sign. As a consumer advocate, I see this directly hitting your dinner budget. With the chain shrinking from a high of nearly 900 locations to well under 600, this closure signals a bigger trend: your favorite "affordable indulgence" is getting squeezed out by high rents and inflation. For you, this means fewer options for a budget-friendly sit-down seafood meal in tourist-heavy zones. Don't be surprised if nearby restaurants start hiking their "endless" deals by a dollar or two, banking on the reduced competition. Your wallet is the real casualty here—watch for prices creeping up on every cheddar bay biscuit and lobster tail from now on.