I went to the Hooters grand opening last July with a mission to record the crowd at the exact moment the doors opened. The video went viral two hours later. By the end of the day, it had spread across the country with more than half a million views.

What began in 1983 as a cheeky Florida hangout has become a global icon with more than 425 locations and a reputation built on wings, beer and friendly service.

So, bringing one to The Villages was a genius move. The same generation that helped make Hooters famous now lives here and they seem to crave the nostalgia. It’s packed every day.

Regular patrons roll up by car or golf cart, greet friendly faces behind the bar and order their favorite menu item. For many, their visit is part memory lane, part neighborhood hangout.

Bartender Tabitha Loose has worked behind the bar since day one and loves the camaraderie as well as the clientele. 

“It’s really cool to see how many people travel here,” she says. “They’ll come in before heading home or after a round of golf and tell us they can’t wait to come back.”

General Manager Summer Abarbanel says the response has been nothing short of remarkable.

“Everyone has welcomed us with open arms,” she says. “It’s exactly what I thought it would be with amazing people in an amazing area.”

During college football season, Saturdays are their biggest days, with fans filling every seat and wearing jerseys like they’re back in their glory years.

I met several longtime fans on opening day, including Brian Thornton, who summed it up perfectly.

“I was a regular at the original back in the early 90s,” he said. “Having a Hooters just a golf cart ride away now that I’m retired brings back the good times and makes life here even better.” 

Hooters opens at 11am seven days a week. Happy hour is packed, so get there early!  

Photos: Nicole Hamel