Hooters: Delightfully Tacky Yet Unrefined

I've had a long standing love for Hooters restaurants. I've been to a few in California and even own a couple shirts. When I found out there was one in New York, I had to get my Hooters fix. I like them because they don't take themselves that seriously. It's a goofy, tacky, fun environment. There is nothing sexy about shiny orange shorts with 80's tube socks and orthopedic white sneakers. Most girls are not actually that well endowed or even attractive. I even saw some wearing football jerseys as opposed to the infamous low cut Hooters shirt. But you know what, I like that it's not overtly sleazy and sexy. People actually come for food more so than to ogle the waitresses, or so I'd like to believe.

There are TVs everywhere showing every sport. The bar has a huge selection of beers that come in enormous glasses. I love that the water cups are giant plastic tumblers. It's refreshing not to have a tiny shot glass as a water glass which needs to be constantly refilled. Order tickets get sent to the kitchen on a clothing line. And of course, the best part of Hooters--the wings. Daytona style wings to be exact. They're not on the menu, but if you order and the cooks are in a good mood, they'll make them. I love secret menus.

So nice to not worry about running short on beer.

Tater tots covered in cheese and bacon, sweet potato fries, mushroom burger.

Daytona style wings. Notice the yummy bits of char grilled goodness. They're grilled, not fried and then covered in BBQ sauce and flash fried.

I had a great time watching Game 1 of the World Series and getting seriously dirty munching on wings, tots, fries and a burger. Service was great as well.

Hooters, you still hold a special place in my heart.





Restaurants mentioned:
Hooters
211 W. 56th St.
New York, NY 10019