We now know where Red Lobster has shuttered locations in Illinois following weeks of speculation the seafood chain was considering bankruptcy.

Why Red Lobster Is Closing

The first reports of a potential bankruptcy filing by Red Lobster came in April via a report from Bloomberg.

The outlet speculated the bankruptcy would allow for Red Lobster's parent company to restructure debt. Among the high-cost items noted by Bloomberg was several pricey leases at various locations and rising labor costs.

Red Lobster began as a family-owned restaurant with one location in Lakeland, Florida in 1968. The demand for its seafood offerings (and those delicious cheddar biscuits) grew, allowing for the opening of more than 700 locations worldwide.

No Red Lobster locations were listed as closing in the initial report from Bloomberg. That all changed this week when multiple states saw the seafood restaurant was no longer operating in their area.

Red Lobster Abruptly Closes Many Locations
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Which Red Lobster Locations Are Closing In Illinois?

While some states were hit hard with several Red Lobster closings, it's business as usual for most Illinois locations.

In all, more than 80 Red Lobster locations have been listed as "temporarily closed." The seafood chain's website is showing that only its Danville and Bloomingdale restaurants have shutdown for the time being.

READ MORE: Once-Popular Food Chain Reported To Be 'Near Death' After Failed Bankruptcy

The other 19 Illinois Red Lobster locations remain open with their regular business hours.

Wisconsin also saw two Red Lobsters designated as "temporarily closed." Both the Wauwatosa and LaCrosse locations have paused business according to the restaurant's website.

This year has already proved to be a challenge for several chains that have shutdown for good. Here is a look at which big brands have closed or are planning to close locations in 2024.

Big Brands Closing Locations in 2024

Here is a look at some of our favorite big brands that will be closing locations in an effort to stop losing money at stores that are underperforming.

Gallery Credit: Billy Jenkins

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YouGov investigated the most popular dining brands in the country, and Stacker compiled the list to give readers context on the findings. Read on to look through America's vast and divergent variety of restaurants—maybe you'll even find a favorite or two.

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