Rhode Island Hooters Closed Indefinitely, But That May Change

Is Rhode Island about to get its Hooters back?

I ask the question, because the only Hooters left in Rhode Island, the Warwick location, closed indefinitely in May 2024.

Here comes the plot twist: Hooters just came out of bankruptcy with a brand-new strategy and a “we’re going back to what made us great” mission. This isn’t a rumor. This is straight from Business Insider. Hooters is refocusing, rebranding and letting local franchisees lead the way.

That got me thinking: could Warwick be part of this comeback story?

Indefinite Doesn’t Mean Forever

The wording matters. The sign didn’t say “permanently closed.” It said "indefinitely." It's a long stretch, but that can sometimes translate to “we’re stepping back until the dust settles.” Now the dust is very much settled. Hooters is organized, focused, and local franchise ownership is exactly how a town like Warwick would get another shot.

Would Rhode Island Even Want It Back?

I mean, be honest. As much as people rolled their eyes at Hooters over the years, that place stayed busy.

READ MORE: Gazelle Once Ordered 100 Wings at a Rhode Island Hooters With Zero Regrets

Football, cold beer, wings, vibes; customers knew exactly what they were walking into and they seemingly enjoyed it.

My Take

I’m not saying it’s confirmed, but I absolutely think there’s a world where Rhode Island gets a Hooters restaurant again. If the brand wants to come back looking sharper than before, Warwick feels like a natural place to do it.

If Hooters suddenly pops back up on Airport Road, I'll be sure to get you the news straight from the source – saucy fingers and all.