When Hooters opened its doors in The Villages last July, locals lined up early and kept the parking lot full for weeks. After months of serving wings with a smile and the classic orange shorts, the initial spectacle may have waned, but popularity hasn’t.

What started as a much-welcomed sensation has become a regular routine for locals, retirees and travelers who know exactly what they want at lunch, dinner and especially happy hour.

The parking lot is still full by 11am each day and college game day has replaced NFL Sunday as the go-to for sports viewing.

Manager Samantha Abarbanel says the response since opening has been phenomenal.

“Everyone has welcomed us with open arms,” she says. “It’s exactly what I thought it would be in this amazing area with the friendliest people.” She says

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