Orlando, Florida – Red Lobster, the renowned seafood restaurant chain, is making waves in the culinary world with new menu changes aimed at delighting seafood enthusiasts, even garnering attention from the popular platform TikTok. The new 35-year-old CEO, Damola Adamolekun, recently unveiled these changes, introducing seven new dishes and bringing back two beloved fan favorites during an exclusive interview on the 3rd hour of TODAY.
In an effort to revitalize the brand, which faced challenges earlier in the year with bankruptcy filings and closures, Adamolekun emphasized the importance of making Red Lobster more relevant, compelling, and exciting for the future. The recent menu launch on November 11th, although 20% smaller, introduced exciting additions such as bacon-wrapped sea scallops, lobster bisque, and new pasta dishes, capturing the essence of Red Lobster’s seafood offerings.
One notable comeback on the menu is the reintroduction of hush puppies, a move that has sparked excitement among diners. Adamolekun humorously mentioned the social media uproar over the removal of hush puppies years ago, highlighting the influence of customer feedback in shaping the menu. The return of hush puppies and popcorn shrimp has garnered positive reactions, even prompting loyal customers like Al Roker to express their delight.
In addition to these changes, Red Lobster now offers a Create Your Own Ultimate Feast option, allowing customers to customize their seafood meal with a mix of premium and classic selections. The revamped menu also includes seasonal drinks like Snowglobe Sangria, Ruby Mule, and Mocha Espresso Martini, catering to diverse tastes and preferences among patrons.
While some promotions like the Ultimate Endless Shrimp have been discontinued, Adamolekun remains open to future possibilities, indicating that nothing is off the table. Adjustments to recipes, such as tartar sauce based on TikTok feedback, reflect the restaurant’s commitment to enhancing the dining experience for customers. Despite these changes, the annual Lobsterfest remains a staple at Red Lobster, with plans to elevate the event and make it the “GLOAT: the greatest lobster fest of all time,” according to Adamolekun’s ambitious vision.
The evolving menu at Red Lobster signals a new chapter for the iconic seafood chain, blending tradition with innovation to meet the demands of modern diners. With a focus on customer satisfaction and culinary excellence, Red Lobster continues to strive for excellence in the competitive restaurant industry, enticing seafood lovers worldwide with its delectable offerings.