Marlin & Ray's Seafood Closes

When Marlin & Ray's opened in Stafford last May, the restaurant had the busiest opening week in the franchise's history, according to manager Jason Thompson.

But one day last week it was over. The popular seafood restaurant was closed, along with all 12 other stores in the chain.  

"Based on a significant amount of discussion and analysis, and a clear understanding that driving profitable same-restaurant sales at Ruby Tuesday is our first and most critical priority, we have decided to close our 13 Marlin & Ray’s restaurants immediately," said JJ Buettgen, Ruby Tuesday Inc.'s President and CEO.

The newer brands had some difficulties and were not a "good fit" for the company, said a source familiar with the company who asked not to be identified. 

Ruby Tuesday reported a net loss of $15.1 million for the fiscal second quarter which ended Dec. 4, Buettgen said.

In addition to shuttering its Marlin & Ray's locations, the company announced it is doing away with its Truffles Grill and Wok Hay concepts, but will keep it's Lime Fresh Mexican Grill and Ruby Tuesday brands.

An announcement on the company website says:

"We have enjoyed serving you the best seafood, steaks, and ribs over the past few years. Unfortunately we have closed. We have taken good care of all our employees and hope that you will visit them at your local Ruby Tuesday. Marlin & Ray’s gift cards may be redeemed at any Ruby Tuesday."

Fredericksburg has two Ruby Tuesday locations:

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