After nearly two years of speculation, Hooters has officially abandoned its plans to open a restaurant in Wesley Chapel. The project was initially announced in October 2024 with an expected summer 2025 opening next to the Harley-Davidson dealership. Despite initial assurances and even a press release in June 2025 promoting the upcoming location, construction never began. Pasco County officials confirmed that Hooters representatives no longer intend to move forward with the project. The cancellation comes amid recent corporate restructuring following Hooters of America LLC’s bankruptcy filing in March 2025. New ownership has since closed several underperforming locations as part of a brand rebuilding effort.
Key Points:
- Hooters announced plans for a 4,500-square-foot restaurant with an outdoor patio next to the Harley-Davidson dealership in October 2024.
- The project was initially targeted for a summer 2025 opening but construction never began in earnest.
- In March 2025, franchisor Hooters of America LLC filed for bankruptcy before the Wesley Chapel location opened.
- Pasco County officials confirmed that Hooters representatives no longer intend to move forward with the project after further inquiry.
- New ownership of Hooters has closed numerous restaurants including several in Florida as part of a restructuring effort.
