Outback, Carrabba’s Owner Closing Restaurants. Are Any in Michigan?

Bloomin’ Brands: A Strategic Pivot Amidst Subpar Performance

Bloomin’ Brands, the parent company of popular restaurant chains Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, is implementing a significant strategic shift. The company recently announced it will close 21 U.S. restaurants during its third quarter, which ended on September 28, 2023. Additionally, Bloomin’ Brands plans to allow the leases of another 22 locations to expire over the next four years.

Adapting Business Model Amidst Challenges

The decision follows subpar results in its third quarter finances for the year 2025, as highlighted by a November 6 news release. According to CEO Mike Spanos, this move is part of an ongoing adaptation process within the company’s business model. Spanos stated, “We have great momentum in our business as demonstrated by our third quarter results,” adding that all four brands drove positive comparable store sales growth for the first time since Q1 2023.

Spanos further explained, “Our teams continue to focus on consistency of execution in food quality and the guest experience, the foundation for our turnaround.” The company’s strategy also involves reallocating available free cash flow into strategic investments in its base business and paying down debt. As a result, Bloomin’ Brands has suspended its dividend payment.

Restaurant Chains Under Scrutiny

Bloomin’ Brands owns several restaurant chains with notable presence across the United States. These include Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. As of 2025, there are approximately 680 Outback Steakhouses nationwide, with specific Michigan locations in cities like Ann Arbor, Grandville, Lansing, and more.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill has about 203 sites, including its locations in Canton, Grandville, Lansing, Novi, Portage, Southgate, Sterling Heights, and Troy.

Bonefish Grill operates two restaurants in Michigan: one in Grand Rapids and another in Novi. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar also has a presence in two cities—Birmingham and Livonia.

Uncertainty for Michigan Locations

The question remains whether any of these Michigan locations will be affected by the announced closings or lease expirations. While Bloomin’ Brands did not specify which restaurants are closing, USA TODAY requested a list of closings and location details where leases were not renewed but has yet to receive a response.

For consumers in Michigan looking for updates on their local Outback Steakhouse or Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations, the company’s website will remain a key source of information. Until further notice, diners are advised to check online for any changes before visiting their favorite restaurant chain locations.

Expert Perspectives and Future Implications

Industry experts suggest that this strategic move by Bloomin’ Brands could signal a broader trend in the restaurant sector as businesses adjust to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions. Analysts note that while the immediate impact on Michigan diners may be uncertain, such decisions can lead to improved financial health for surviving restaurants and potentially better customer experiences.

“The focus on Outback Steakhouse and strategic investments should help the company regain its footing,” said a restaurant industry analyst who requested anonymity. “However, it’s crucial that the company maintains consistency in food quality and guest experience across all remaining locations.”

This strategic move by Bloomin’ Brands underscores the complexities faced by casual dining companies as they navigate an evolving market landscape. As the company implements its turnaround strategy, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these changes impact not only the bottom line but also the dining experiences of customers in Michigan and beyond.