Red Lobster is a well-known casual dining seafood restaurant chain founded in 1968 by Bill Darden in Orlando, Florida. The company has built its reputation around freshly prepared seafood, approachable pricing, and signature menu items that have made it a recognizable name in the restaurant industry.

With more than 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada and additional operations in several international markets, Red Lobster has served guests through dine-in, takeout, and delivery services. The brand is especially known for Cheddar Bay Biscuits® and seafood favorites such as the Ultimate Feast® and Walt’s Favorite Shrimp.

When Was Red Lobster Established?

Founded: 1968
Founder: Bill Darden
Headquarters: Orlando, Florida, USA
Industry: Casual Dining Restaurant
Locations: Over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada
Employees: 58,000
Annual Revenue: $2.6 billion (2018)

Red Lobster Mission Statement

"To serve high-quality, freshly prepared seafood in a welcoming environment."

What Is Red Lobster Known for?

Here are some of Red Lobster's standout features that separate it from its competitors.

Fresh Seafood Offerings

Red Lobster is best known for its seafood-focused menu, which includes lobster, shrimp, crab, scallops, and fish dishes prepared in a casual dining setting. The company’s wide variety of seafood options helps it appeal to guests looking for both classic and hearty meals.

Cheddar Bay Biscuits®

Cheddar Bay Biscuits® are one of Red Lobster’s most recognized signature items. These warm, house-made biscuits have become a defining part of the brand and a major reason many customers return.

Accessible Seafood Dining

Red Lobster’s unique selling proposition is offering a broad selection of seafood dishes at accessible prices. This value-driven approach has helped the chain remain a familiar choice for casual seafood dining.

What Are Red Lobster's Most Popular Menu Items?

Red Lobster offers a variety of menu categories, from seafood boils and signature feasts to shrimp classics and soups & sides. Some of its most popular items include the Ultimate Feast®, Cheddar Bay Biscuits®, and Walt's Favorite Shrimp.

Signature Feasts and Seafood Boils

The Ultimate Feast® includes Maine lobster tail, snow crab, Walt's Favorite Shrimp, and garlic shrimp scampi served with two sides. Another popular choice is the Mariner's Seafood Boil, which features a Maine lobster tail, shrimp, snow crab legs, corn, and red potatoes served in a hot shake-and-serve bag.

Shrimp Favorites and Sides

Walt's Favorite Shrimp remains one of the chain's most popular shrimp dishes, offering hand-breaded, lightly fried shrimp with cocktail sauce. Guests also frequently order Lobster Bisque and New England Clam Chowder as comforting side options.

Biscuits and Casual Dining Staples

Cheddar Bay Biscuits® are available in half-dozen or dozen portions and are often paired with entrées. Red Lobster also serves items like Shrimp & Sausage Jambalaya, Bacon Cheeseburger, and Grilled Shrimp, giving the menu broader appeal beyond seafood alone.

How Many Red Lobster Locations Are There?

Red Lobster has over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada, along with operations in Mexico, Ecuador, Japan, and Thailand. Its presence spans multiple regions, supporting both domestic and international customer demand.

The company continues to focus on enhancing online ordering and delivery capabilities as part of its broader effort to meet changing guest expectations and strengthen its restaurant operations.

Which Regions Does Red Lobster Operate In?

Red Lobster operates in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Ecuador, Japan, and Thailand. This international footprint reflects the brand’s reach as a casual dining seafood chain with a recognizable global identity.

Who Owns Red Lobster?

Red Lobster is a casual dining restaurant chain that has gone through significant financial restructuring. In May 2024, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection due to financial challenges and is currently undergoing efforts to stabilize its position and revitalize the brand.

Is Red Lobster Currently Hiring?

You can check out the open positions that Red Lobster has right here on OysterLink.

Red Lobster Jobs in Bellflower

Jobs From Red Lobster

Busser/Runner

Dishwasher