Hooters Closes Over 30 Restaurants Following Bankruptcy Filing Despite Assurances to Stay Open
Just three months after assuring customers that its restaurants were “here to stay,” Hooters has closed more than 30 locations across the United States, signaling a dramatic shift following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March 2025.
In an earlier public statement, Hooters of America CEO Sal Melilli emphasized the company’s plans to rebuild financially while continuing to serve its guests. “Our renowned Hooters restaurants are here to stay,” Melilli said in March. “This marks an important step in reinforcing our financial foundation and delivering the hospitality experience our customers expect.”
However, by early June, those plans changed significantly.
Dozens of Locations Closed Nationwide
According to a report from Newsweek, a Hooters spokesperson confirmed that the closures—though difficult—were necessary. The company did not provide specific reasons for the shutdowns, but many industry analysts point to rising operational costs, shifting dining habits, and economic pressures as likely contributors.
The list of closed restaurants spans more than a dozen states, with multiple closures in Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, and Texas. Some of the most notable locations include:
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Downtown Atlanta, GA
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Downtown St. Louis, MO
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Grapevine and Houston, TX
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Nashville and Memphis, TN
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Charlotte, NC
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Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tallahassee, FL
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Detroit and Flint, MI
In total, 30+ restaurants were shuttered as of June 4, 2025.
Hope from an Unlikely Source
In May, professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan made headlines when he expressed interest in helping the chain survive. He proposed supporting the business through a partnership with his beverage company, Real American Beer.
The idea received enthusiastic support online. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Please make this happen! My local Hooters looks like hell, and I would love some Real American Beer and wings.”
As of now, no formal deal has been announced between Hogan’s company and Hooters, but the conversation has sparked curiosity and hope among longtime fans of the brand.
What’s Next for Hooters?
Despite the closures, Hooters has not announced a complete shutdown of operations. Many locations remain open, and the brand continues to serve its signature food and customer experience in key markets.
The recent closures reflect the challenges facing many casual dining chains in today’s economy, but whether this marks a turning point or a path to reinvention for Hooters remains to be seen.