Several Red Lobster locations reportedly closing abruptly, including several in Tampa

Red Lobster closing some restaurants

Florida-based restaurant chain Red Lobster is closing dozens of locations across the country, including three in the Bay Area.

TAMPA, Fla. - Red Lobster has closed several locations across the country this week, including several in Tampa, after it announced weeks ago it was considering filing for bankruptcy.

READ: Red Lobster reportedly considering filing for bankruptcy

Bloomberg reported in mid-April that the restaurant franchise was weighing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing to renegotiate some leases and address other long-term contracts and rising labor costs.

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This week, Liquidator TAGeX Brands announced that it’s holding online auctions for select Red Lobster restaurants closing in 21 states, including Florida. The auctions run through Thursday and include fixtures, furniture, and equipment.

According to TAGeX Brands, the auction is ‘the largest restaurant equipment auction ever’ on its website. Red Lobster did not immediately respond to a request for comment.