Red Lobster

Red Lobster is America's largest seafood restaurant chain, founded in 1968 by Bill Darden and Charley Woodsby in Lakeland, Florida. The original vision was to bring affordable, high-quality seafood dining to communities far from the coast, democratizing access to fresh seafood across the American heartland. Red Lobster quickly grew into a national chain, becoming synonymous with casual seafood dining in the United States. The restaurant is famous for its Cheddar Bay Biscuits, a warm, cheesy, garlic-butter bread that has achieved cult status and is even sold in retail grocery stores as a boxed mix. Other signature offerings include the Lobster Lover's Dream, Admiral's Feast, and the popular Ultimate Endless Shrimp promotion. Red Lobster operates over 700 locations across the United States and Canada, along with international locations in several countries. The chain has undergone several ownership changes over the years, including periods under General Mills and Darden Restaurants, before being acquired by Thai Union Group. Red Lobster sources its seafood from fisheries and farms around the world and has committed to responsible sourcing practices through partnerships with organizations like the Global Aquaculture Alliance. The chain remains the go-to destination for Americans celebrating special occasions or craving a seafood feast, offering a full bar, extensive wine list, and a warm, nautical-themed dining environment.