Hooters of America , Inc. is the franchisor and operator of over 450 Hooters restaurants in 42 states and 26 foreign countries . The first Hooters opened in 1983 in Clearwater , Florida and is well-known for its brand of food and fun , featuring a casual beach-theme atmosphere , a menu that features seafood , sandwiches and Hooters nearly world famous chicken wings , and service provided by the All-American cheerleaders , the Hooters Girls . Hooters has donated more than $ 8 million to local and national charities since 1992 through HOO.C.E.F , the Hooters Community Endowment Fund . For more information about Hooters visit www.hooters.com.