Secaucus Bonefish Grill Permanently Closes: Get The Full Story

SECAUCUS, NJ — Everyone in Secaucus is stunned by the abrupt — and permanent — closure of the Bonefish Grill in town.

"They closed Friday. They told their employees Friday. That's all I know," said Mayor Mike Gonnelli Monday, saying the news came as a surprise even to him.

“Closing a restaurant is never easy. This was a business decision that is not a reflection of the management or staff," said Elizabeth Daly, a spokeswoman for Bloomin' Brands, the corporation that owns Bonefish Grill.

On Feb. 23, the same day the Secaucus Bonefish closed, Bloomin' Brands closed 41 locations of Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s across the United States, CNN reported. Bloomin' said they specifically chose to close older locations that had been open for many years.

The Secaucus Bonefish Grill had been in business for 19 years. It was a mainstay for happy hour for many of the companies located around there, as well as Town Hall employees. Many of the hotels in that area directed their guests there, and Bonefish was popular among NYC tourists, business travelers and Secaucus locals alike. It was a first-choice spot for nights out, special dinners and romantic dates.

Not only that, but the Secaucus Bonefish employed many people who also live in Secaucus. And — contrary to what Patch was told earlier Monday — not all the employees at the Secaucus Bonefish will be able to keep their jobs:

"Some employees will have the opportunity to transfer," said Daly. "Those who do not will receive a severance package. We appreciate the community’s support over the past 19 years and hope to see you at our Paramus and Pine Brook locations.”

Bloomin' Brands also owns Outback Steakhouse (there is one in Secaucus) and Carrabba's Italian Grill (there used to be one in Secaucus, but it closed several years ago. No other restaurant has moved into their space.)

The Secaucus Outback Steakhouse remains open, said Daly.

Bonefish closed Friday night, Feb. 23, at the end of normal business hours. All the staff that worked there was informed Friday it would be closing.

The decision was made by Bonefish Grill corporate headquarters (Bloomin' Brands), likely because the Secaucus location was under performing. But that has not been confirmed by corporate.

A sign up on the door says the restaurant is permanently closed and directs the public to other Bonefish locations in Pine Brook and Paramus.

Workers in front of the building said they have been instructed to remove all Bonefish logos. There is a large dumpster in front of the restaurant that is currently being filled with tables and chairs from inside. The dumpster also smells like fish.