Red Lobster, a household name synonymous with seafood dining, found itself in choppy waters in 2023, ultimately filing for bankruptcy amidst years of operational and financial challenges. The company’s turbulent journey offers crucial lessons for small business owners seeking to understand what went wrong and how to avoid similar pitfalls in their own ventures. This case study examines Red Lobster’s missteps and offers actionable insights for small business owners seeking to refine their strategies.