A famous “breastaurant” chain is making a comeback, but with a change to its iconic outfits.
Hooters announced Monday that its founding group, Hooters Inc., “Original Hooters,” has finalized its acquisition of Hooters of America, taking full ownership of the brand. The company said it has begun to roll out a “re-Hooterization” of its restaurants and vision for the future.
Part of the changes include an update to its “World Famous Hooters Girls," known for wearing orange shorts and tank tops.
“As part of the change, all server uniforms will return the original look while staying true to the brand’s original beachy vibe and heritage,” Hooters Inc. said in a statement.
Hooters CEO Neil Kiefer told the Daily Mail the throwback look will feature classic orange shorts and white crop tops, instead of the newer, tighter bikini-style bottoms that were compared to “skimpy” underwear. The company is calling it part of a “renewed commitment to family and community.”
“I don’t think you’re going to see a bunch of butt cheeks hanging out,” Kiefer said.
Hooters’ footprint has declined significantly over the past decade, partly due to increased competition and controversy over its Hooters outfits. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year, but was approved for reorganization last month and will move to a franchise model.
Original Hooters, along with their partners from Hoot Owl Restaurants LLC, will own approximately 140 of its 198 Hooters restaurants in the U.S., the company said. Hooters previously had a Syracuse location at Destiny USA/Carousel Center and still has three restaurants in New York state, including one in Colonie, near Albany.
Hooters said it will also revamp its menu with the return of fan-favorite dishes like its handbreaded wing recipe and wing sauces using Grade AA butter, plus wild-caught fish options, fresh cut salads, ranch and bleu cheese dressings made in house daily.
“We’re not just acquiring restaurants — we’re taking back the Hooters name to show the world who we really are,” Kiefer said in a statement. “Our vision is about more than great food and service. It’s about bringing people together, making memories, and ensuring that Hooters remains a place where everyone feels welcome. We’ve done this successfully for over forty years and are beyond excited to rebuild trust one wing, customer, and one family at a time.”
