ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hooters of America, LLC, today announced the first-ever Hooters location in Russia, Hooters of Moscow, will celebrate its grand opening on April 28. Hooters has teamed up with Russian professional basketball star Andrei Kirilenko, a forward for the National Basketball Association’s Brooklyn Nets who is working with a team of restaurant operators with a proven track record in Russia, to open a total of five Hooters locations over the next three to four years .
Located in central Moscow, a popular destination for locals, expats and tourists alike, Hooters of Moscow hired nearly 80 Hooters Girls to serve up the brand’s world-famous chicken wings. The new location features contemporary design elements that represent the future image of the iconic brand, including modern touches with a rustic undertone that aligns with Hooters beach oasis heritage.
The 3,767 square foot space seats nearly 170 guests with 40 large, high-definition televisions to ensure sports fans have a direct line of sight to view their favorite sporting events.
“Like Americans, Russians are huge sports fans that are excited about an upbeat dining experience that combines sports, delicious food and, of course, the Hooters Girls,” said Kirilenko. “Hooters is the perfect fusion of all three, so it only makes sense to bring this legendary concept to my home country.”
The grand opening of the Hooters of Moscow is part of Hooters plan to open 19 international locations this year, including recent locations opening in Panama City, Panama, Prague, Czech Republic and Xi’an, China. Additional grand openings are scheduled for Phuket, Thailand and Shibuya (Tokyo), Japan. Overall growth plans include development of more than 150 new Hooters locations worldwide over the next five years.
“The new Moscow location truly embodies Hooters growth internationally, as well as the brand’s contemporary transformation,” said Mark Whittle, senior vice president, development, Hooters of America. “We hope local guests will celebrate Hooters launch in Moscow and we want to welcome everyone in the community to come enjoy the great food and service Hooters is known for around the world.”
Moscow is a booming city with a love of sports and a lively social atmosphere that aligns with the iconic Hooters brand. Some menu items at the new Moscow location will cater to local preferences, but Hooters world-famous chicken wings will be a menu staple. Guests will also enjoy a variety of signature entrees, including salads, sandwiches, seafood dishes and other delicious options.