Carrabba's Italian Grill closes last two LI locations
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, a nationwide chain that bears a passing resemblance to the Olive Garden, shuttered its last two Long Island locations — in Smithtown and Central Islip — as of Feb. 23.
“Deciding to close a restaurant is never easy,” Elizabeth Daly, the spokeswoman for Bloomin' Brands, which owns Carrabba’s, Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill, said in an emailed statement. “This was a business decision and is not a reflection of the management or staff.”
Carrabba's launched in 1986, the brainchild of Johnny Carrabba and his uncle Damian Mandola — Sicilian by ancestry, Texan by birth — with a casual Italian American menu based on the recipes of the duo’s youth. With staples like a tower of breadsticks, Caesar salad, variations of fettuccine Alfredo, as well as steaks, chops, grilled chicken dishes and parms, Carrabba’s was embraced by Texas and Florida in the late '80s and early '90s. The brand was bought by Outback Steakhouse in 1995.
Although Bloomin’ Brands is closing 41 poorly performing restaurants, including the two Long Island locations, the company plans to open 45 new ones. However, none of the new Carrabba's outposts will be on Long Island. Another nationwide chain, Boston Market, also recently shuttered its remaining Long Island locations.
A global freelancer who has checked her suitcase to raise her young daughter on her native Long Island, Marie Elena will always make time for good mezcal, even better tacos and killer conversation. Preferably, in a corner bar seat. She can be found on Instagram at @mariesworldeats.
