When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Original Hooters
Why Original Hooters is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Original Hooters, located in Clearwater, Florida, is known as the birthplace of the Hooters dining experience, founded on April Fools' Day in 1983 by six local businessmen. This historic venue transformed a rundown former nightclub into a unique restaurant featuring a fun yet nostalgic ambiance with polished wood décor and classic '50s and '60s hits playing in the background. What truly defines Original Hooters is its signature menu of "manly" finger foods, especially the legendary classic wings that have delighted guests for decades. The restaurant is perfect for meeting friends due to its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and party-friendly offerings such as Catering Packs for big games or gatherings. With its roots deeply embedded in local culture and a welcoming environment, it remains a favorite hub for socializing over great food and drinks, offering a mix of authenticity, history, and casual dining fun. Its blend of retro charm with contemporary hospitality makes it a memorable place to connect and enjoy time with friends.
Here's what people think of Original Hooters
As of recent, Original Hooters holds a 3.8-star rating based on 1990 reviews.
Reviews for Original Hooters highlight a generally positive experience with a current rating of about 3.8 stars from nearly 2,000 reviews. Many positive comments focus on the delicious quality of the wings, which the restaurant has been perfecting since its inception, with many praising the variety of flavors and consistent taste. Patrons also appreciate the inviting and quirky nostalgic ambiance, recalling the original vibe from when the first restaurant opened, alongside attentive and friendly staff that enhance the dining experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention inconsistencies such as occasional slow service, cramped seating, or menu prices perceived as high relative to portion sizes. Some visitors note the noisiness and crowded environment during peak hours, which might not suit all tastes. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains favorable due to the heritage and unique experience the location offers. In summary, Original Hooters stands out for its iconic wings and spirited social atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for casual meetups, though diners should be prepared for a bustling environment and occasional service variations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vernice Shields
nice and the food was great, which I truly appreciated as I was out celebrating myself. However, I did run into an issue that put a damper on the experience. I arrived at 2:50 p.m. hoping to take advantage of the 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. lunch special. After waiting about 5–6 minutes for a hostess with no one greeting me, I realized time was running out. Wanting to ensure I made the cut-off, I approached a kind young lady named Jan who was taking to-go orders and asked if I could place a dine-in order instead. At exactly 3:00 p.m., I attempted to order the boneless chicken and shrimp specials, each priced at $9.99. Jan, who was very courteous and tried to assist, asked her manager Jasmine if it would be okay to honor the special given the circumstances. Unfortunately, the answer was a firm “no.” I was genuinely surprised and disappointed by that response. Had I been greeted and seated in a timely manner, I would have been well within the time window to place my order. Despite that, I decided to stay and dine in. However, I ended up waiting an additional 13 minutes without anyone coming by to take my order. Several employees walked past me, but no one acknowledged me. Considering I had also paid for parking to enjoy what was meant to be a celebratory meal, it felt disheartening to be overlooked like that. I do want to highlight and applaud the efforts of Jan and Roz—both of whom were very kind and professional. Roz, in particular, was extremely pleasant once she finally came over. This review is in no way a reflection on their service, but rather on how the situation was handled by management. Because of how things unfolded, I will be reaching out to corporate to share my experience in more detail. I hope this feedback can be used constructively so that others don’t encounter similar issues.
Super Tax Nerd
Can't go wrong with this classic popped in for a late lunch so no surprised the service was lacking but the food and drinks were surprisingly good. I will def be back to check if the service is better later. If your close pop in for some surprisingly good food. The chef makes this place since the staff was mia.
Andi Chem
The chicken wings here were really tasty, crispy on the outside and juicy inside. I liked that there were plenty of sauces to choose from, and each one had good flavor. The sports bar vibe was lively with lots of screens showing the games. Service was friendly and the food came out quickly, which made the whole experience fun.
Danielle Sr.
I hate to say it, but I call who the girls how I see it. Sometimes the Hooters girls are good for nothing but looking pretty everything you ask them sometimes they don’t know anything about. They just stand there and look dumbfounded, but needless to say I do still enjoy the environment and the food and the drinks. And they charged me way too much money for that little non-alcoholic drink. Updated on Fat Tuesday 2025 : the more and more I go to hooters the more and more I look at them definitely! The Hooter girls looked a little rough and acted like it too… as if they didn’t even want to be at work! I got an email saying they where celebrating Fat Tuesday… and I was more dressed up for the event then they where.
Jeremy S
HORRIBLE HORRIBLE! Everything about this place was HORRIBLE! 1. Table had for sure not been properly wiped or cleaned. Was very sticky and had food crumbs all over it. Entire place had 11 customers (with 7 visible employees) and yet somehow we sat and waited for 15 minutes to be acknowledged. 2. 2 separate groups of people (a group of 4 and separate group of 3 BOTH of which arrived at least 15 minutes AFTER us but somehow received their food WAY before me and my guest) 3. Waited approximately 15 minutes for a beer to arrive and an additional 25 minutes for a small order of wings and crab legs (AFTER 2 other groups that ordered their food 15-20 minutes after we did and somehow received their larger orders WAY before us) 4. FINALLY got our food (crab legs, fries and 10 boneless wings) with no offer of ANY silverware or even an offer of water and were disgusted by the sight of it. (Please see photos) The glass of lemonade had chunks of 'something' floating in it (was NOT pieces of lemon) and there were black spots all over the cup it was in, the cup of 'butter' that came with the crab was utterly disgusting. It had a brown substance at the bottom of the cup and appeared to have been sitting around for a long time (by no means was fresh or even looked to have been prepared that day!) The boneless wings were sitting in a pool of grease and even worse some yellow-ish substance was floating on top of that! 5. 2 of the boneless wings contained no chicken. It was just a mass of greasy fried breaded nothing! 6. Then to top off a horrible dining experience, had to wait forever to get our check. By this point, there were still only about 10 other people in the place and at least 7 employees. Our experience lasted well into the night and unfortunately the morning as we both suffered lengthy "stomach related issues". How is it possible for a staff of a food establishment be so lacking of ability, common sense, knowledge of food handling and health code laws and procedures, and training? Absolutely unacceptable on so many levels. Zero stars ALL around.
How to reach Original Hooters
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Why Original Hooters may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Original Hooters with your friends? Imagine a place where casual vibes meet hearty American fare in a lively atmosphere crafted to make everyone feel welcome. Original Hooters is exactly that spot — a venue combining iconic, crowd-pleasing dishes with fun service and a laid-back setting designed for social gatherings. Whether you’re catching up after work, celebrating a weekend, or just wanting to indulge in legendary wings and refreshing drinks, this restaurant offers an inviting environment for groups looking to unwind together. The restaurant’s rating of 3.8 out of 5 from nearly 2,000 reviews underscores a solid reputation for consistency in food and experience that many patrons return to. Here, friends can enjoy large portion sizes and a menu that appeals to a variety of tastes without breaking the bank. The casual, “beachy” and upbeat décor encourages conversation and laughter, making it a perfect rally point for a good time. Add in attentive service with a friendly, energetic vibe — including the well-known Hooters girls, who contribute to the signature experience — and you have a spot that goes beyond just dining to become a genuine social event destination.
What activities are available at Original Hooters that make it perfect for group meetups? The main attraction at Original Hooters is undoubtedly its American-style menu featuring the world-famous chicken wings in various flavors, but there’s much more for a group to enjoy. Besides indulging in tasty appetizers like steamed shrimp and crab legs, guests can dive into satisfying burgers, Cuban sandwiches, steak sandwiches, and fresh salads, accommodating all palates. This diversity ensures that no matter your group’s preferences or dietary restrictions, everyone finds something delicious. Groups can take advantage of the casual dining space to share plates, sample multiple dishes, and make dining a collective experience. The full bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails adds a festive edge, ideal for celebratory meetups. For those who want music as a backdrop, the jukebox playing upbeat classics complements the spirited environment. Many Original Hooters locations, such as the one in Clearwater, Florida, offer free WiFi for those who want to stay connected or share their moments online. A children’s menu and catering options also mean this venue can comfortably host family gatherings or larger celebrations. Outdoor patios, available at some locations, offer pet-friendly zones, adding to the versatility for groups with pets.
Why is Original Hooters an ideal place to host a meetup with friends or family? This restaurant’s appeal lies in its ability to blend casual dining with a sense of fun and community, which is essential when welcoming groups. The portion sizes are generous, ensuring no one leaves hungry, and the pricing tends to be budget-friendly, especially for lunch and dinner items priced under $12, making it easy for groups to enjoy a meal together without financial strain. Service is consistently friendly and attentive, often praised for the personal touch servers bring to the experience. This enhances the comfort and enjoyment of group dining because people feel more at ease in a welcoming atmosphere. The decor is relaxed yet vibrant, evoking a beach-bar feel that encourages guests to relax and be themselves. For families considering Original Hooters, the atmosphere is mixed but generally family-friendly enough, with some reviews noting its suitability for all ages despite the signature style of the servers. The venue is adaptable enough to accommodate casual dinners, sports-watching parties, or special occasions, making it a versatile destination for social and family gatherings alike.
How do patrons perceive the overall experience at Original Hooters? The establishment holds a solid rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on a large number of reviews, reflecting a generally positive reception. Guests commonly highlight the quality and taste of the food, especially the chicken wings and the large portions that offer good value for the price. The atmosphere is frequently described as lively and relaxed — perfect for groups who want to enjoy themselves without the pressure of fine dining. The service is usually noted as friendly and engaging, contributing significantly to the enjoyment of visits. However, reviews also point out occasional inconsistencies, such as variability in drink quality or service speed, which can impact the experience depending on the day or location. This is typical for popular chain restaurants but does not largely detract from the overall appeal. Customers appreciate the restaurant’s willingness to accommodate special needs, such as outdoor seating for those with pets, which adds to its group-friendly nature.
What makes the menu at Original Hooters stand out for group dining? The menu is both classic and broad, featuring American favorites that appeal to a wide audience. Signature chicken wings anchor the food offerings, available in a variety of sauces and spice levels that allow each guest to customize their meal. Beyond wings, the menu offers alternatives such as steamed shrimp, crab legs, and hearty sandwiches — choices that provide variety and cater to different dietary preferences. Salads and lighter options are included for those looking for healthier fare, ensuring inclusivity in the group’s dining choices. The price point is attractive for groups seeking hearty meals without overspending, with many dishes under $12 so everyone can try multiple items or share platters. The drink menu also enhances the group experience, with a full bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails to complement meals and encourage socializing.
How does Original Hooters accommodate families and larger groups wanting to celebrate special events? Even though Hooters' image is sometimes seen as targeting adults, many locations smartly cater to families and group celebrations by providing children’s menus and accommodating seating arrangements. The casual and open layout of the restaurant makes it easy to occupy spaces that fit groups of varying sizes, from small friend circles to larger family parties. Outdoor patios accessible in some locations offer a more flexible environment where pets and kids can be more comfortable. Catering options are available as well, allowing groups to bring some of the Original Hooters flavor to private parties or office gatherings. The friendly and energetic staff is often ready to make special occasions feel more enjoyable and seamless, handling requests that enhance the group’s experience. This adaptability is key for groups looking for a fuss-free place that balances fun, food, and friendliness under one roof.
What atmosphere and vibe can guests expect when rallying at Original Hooters? The overall atmosphere is casual, upbeat, and somewhat playful, drawing inspiration from its beach-themed roots. Guests experience a pleasantly unrefined environment where laughter and good times take precedence over formalities. Music, often classic rock or popular upbeat tunes from the jukebox, adds to the energetic vibe. Lighting and decor strike a balance between vibrant colors and comfort, creating an inviting space that encourages lingering and social interaction. The servers, famously called Hooters girls, contribute to a unique dining experience by combining professional service with a friendly and entertaining presence. This makes Original Hooters more than just a place to eat; it becomes a social hub where groups can rally to celebrate victories, unwind after long days, or simply enjoy each other's company in a distinctively lively setting.
What practical features support group meetups at Original Hooters? In addition to good food and atmosphere, Original Hooters offers several practical amenities that make it easy for groups to plan and enjoy their meetups. Free WiFi is often available, supporting connectivity for guests who want to browse the web, check social media, or share their experience in real time. The restaurant’s layout includes large tables and booths designed to seat groups together comfortably, which is more inviting than many fast-food or quick-service options. The availability of outdoor patio seating in certain locations is advantageous for groups with pets or those who prefer an open-air environment. The full bar ensures adults have access to a variety of drinks beyond standard beer and soda, perfect for those who want to toast to friendship or special events. Finally, catering services offered by many locations enable groups to extend the Original Hooters experience beyond the restaurant walls, whether hosting a home party or workplace event.
In summary, Original Hooters stands out as a prime destination for friends and family looking to gather in a casual, fun, and versatile setting. Its menu variety, spirited atmosphere, accommodating staff, and group-friendly amenities make it an ideal spot to rally, celebrate, and enjoy quality time together.