Golden Corral Eyes Pompano Beach Comeback After 2018 Closure

The buffet chain plans to re-enter the Pompano Beach market, citing the city's growing population and tourism as key factors.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Nearly eight years after closing its doors on Atlantic Boulevard in Pompano Beach, the Golden Corral restaurant chain is actively scouting the city for a comeback. Dan Doulen, the chain's Senior Director of Franchise Business Development, confirmed that Pompano Beach is a primary target in the brand's 2026 Florida expansion strategy. The move marks a significant pivot for the buffet giant, which shuttered its former location in 2018 due to pre-pandemic challenges. However, Doulen suggests the "new" Pompano Beach and a revamped Golden Corral make for a perfect second act.

Why it matters

The return of Golden Corral to Pompano Beach is seen as a strategic move by the chain, as the city's growing population, rising median household income, and thriving tourism industry make it an attractive market for expansion. This comes at a time when the restaurant industry has faced numerous closures due to high costs and consumer spending challenges, but Golden Corral executives believe their refocused buffet model centered on delivery and off-premises dining will resonate with budget-conscious diners.

The details

Golden Corral is currently focused on finding a local entrepreneur to spearhead the new Pompano Beach location. The brand is offering aggressive incentives, including training reimbursements and marketing support, for partners who can open a new restaurant within 24 months. The chain is also touting its ability to fit into smaller footprints ranging from 7,800 to 9,200 square feet, which it says creates more cost-effective opportunities to re-enter markets like Pompano Beach.

  • Golden Corral closed its previous Pompano Beach location in 2018.
  • Golden Corral is targeting 2026 for its Florida expansion strategy, which includes a return to Pompano Beach.

The players

Golden Corral

A national buffet restaurant chain that is actively scouting Pompano Beach for a strategic comeback after closing its previous location in the city in 2018.

Dan Doulen

The Senior Director of Franchise Business Development for Golden Corral, who confirmed the chain's interest in re-entering the Pompano Beach market.

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What they’re saying

“Pompano Beach fits this profile as a stable residential community complemented by frequent tourism. Pompano Beach's population and median household income have been continuing to grow in recent years, reaffirming our confidence in the market for expansion.”

— Dan Doulen, Senior Director of Franchise Business Development (tapinto.net)

“While parts of the restaurant industry are facing challenges, brands that deliver a terrific dining experience for an incredible value... have continued to resonate with guests. We see these closures as future Golden Corral opportunities!”

— Dan Doulen, Senior Director of Franchise Business Development (tapinto.net)

What’s next

Golden Corral is currently focused on finding the right local franchise partner to open a new location in Pompano Beach within the next 24 months, offering incentives and support to help facilitate a quick re-entry into the market.

The takeaway

Golden Corral's planned return to Pompano Beach highlights the chain's confidence in the city's growing population, rising incomes, and thriving tourism industry, even as the broader restaurant industry faces challenges. The buffet giant's refocused model on delivery and off-premises dining aims to capitalize on budget-conscious diners seeking value-driven dining experiences.