The once highly controversial eatery settled in peacefully on the east end of College Avenue, across from South Halls, with little protest and a constant crowd.
Owner Jeffery Haas, who cancelled plans to establish a Hooters last fall due to negative responses in the community as well as lack of investors, was pleased with opening-day business. The obstacles to establish the restaurant in State College have not fazed his outlook on the future.
"It is the most requested restaurant in the area," he said. "It will do exceptionally well."
Many students agree that it is a positive addition to the Penn State atmosphere.
"It will liven up the college scene," said Vic Canez (senior-mechanical engineering). "It is a great establishment because it has all that you need, beer, wings and hooters."
Hooters may also attract business from boys who are looking to bond with others on their floor.
"I plan to take the guys there," said Luke Phan (junior-MSIS), who is a resident assistant in Hoyt Hall. "It'll build community."
Where there once was concern about the exploitation of young women in the community, there is now more peaceful acceptance. State College residents Bob and Elaine Dunkle, have heard little in the way of complaints.
"If those girls want to dress like that, it's their prerogative," Elaine said.
Brett Feldman (junior-kinesiology) added that the dress code is just part of the novelty. "Every place has a uniform. Theirs is just tight."
It is not just the waitresses that attract diners. "We've gone to some in other cities because it's convenient," said Dunkle.
"I've heard the food is good," Megan Humphrey (junior-kinesiology) said. "And people go there for the atmosphere."
Other students maintain a neutral opinion of the alluring hot spot, though there is concern for the rising noise level in the area since the beginning of its construction in June.
"You can hear the girls cheering and guys honking," said Kim Denlinger (junior-education). "I'm afraid it'll continue to be noisy."
Chris Miller (junior-engineering) agreed that the noise could be the biggest frustration Hooters causes in the area.
"It's added to the already too loud noise level," Miller said. "Other than that, it's causing no real big problems. It's no different than any other restaurant."
