The Red Lobster restaurant in Times Square closed its doors last Sunday, ending an era for a longtime dining spot known for affordable seafood in the heart of New York City. On its final weekend, the lobster tank near the entrance sat empty, the water discolored, while customers continued to order shrimp, lobster tails, and seafood linguine, some unaware the location was shutting down.

The chain attributed the closure to challenges specific to this site, citing ongoing construction on the building above the restaurant, which involved scaffolding erected to convert the upper floors into residential units. The company stated that the scaffolding impaired the restaurant’s visibility and access for guests, creating operational difficulties that ultimately led to the decision to close.

Located at West 41st Street and Seventh Avenue, the three-story Red Lobster was a familiar sight in the bustling Times Square area, a spot that attracted both tourists and locals. During the final week, the restaurant offered a rare venue where fans could watch the New York Knicks play in the NBA finals without paying a cover charge. However, the draw was not enough to sustain the business amid the challenges posed by the construction.

Regular patrons expressed sadness at the closure. Mercy Kamau, 51, traveled from Princeton, New Jersey, on her partner’s business trip specifically to have lunch at the Times Square location before it closed. For her, it was “the only place I eat lobster,” and she described learning of the shutdown as crushing news.

Even community figures took note of the closure. Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels and former Republican mayoral candidate, announced via social media that he would observe “sitting shiva” for the restaurant, a traditional Jewish mourning period. While he initially planned to mourn for eight days, commitments and personal responsibilities shortened it to two. Mr. Sliwa, recognized for his red beret and windbreaker, frequented the restaurant in its final days and made it his mission to inform fellow diners of the impending closure. Though he has no official affiliation with Red Lobster, he became a familiar presence among patrons marking the end of the location.

For one group of Brooklyn-based friends who jointly run a film studio, the closure marked the end of a 15-year tradition. They often celebrated milestones by taking the subway to Times Square to eat at Red Lobster, usually served by the same waiter, Jose. When their business recently expanded, the group returned for one last celebratory meal featuring seafood samplers, crab boil, and the chain’s signature Cheddar Bay biscuits. “New traditions may have to be made,” noted Scott Wilson, one of the owners.

With the closest Red Lobster locations now in Baychester, the Bronx; East New York, Brooklyn; and Secaucus, New Jersey, many who had considered the Times Square spot a convenient and familiar option will need to seek alternative venues. The closure marks a significant shift in the Times Square dining landscape, removing an institution that many associated with good times and accessibility in an increasingly expensive city.

Mr. Sliwa reflected on the significance of the closure, expressing concern that rising dining costs may signal tougher times ahead. He emphasized the sentimental value of the restaurant, saying it left many patrons with lasting memories and served as an iconic fixture in a changing New York.