Hooters at Clarke Quay to close on Jan. 31 after 30 years

Hooters, the famous American restaurant chain known for its eye-grabbing wait staff uniform, will be closing its Clarke Quay outlet after a 30-year run.

The last day of operations will be on Jan. 31, 2026.

The closure will mark the exit of Hooters from Singapore.

Manpower shortage and slow sales

Speaking to Mothership, Selena Chua, Managing Director of the restaurant, cited ongoing manpower shortage as well as consistently slow sales as reasons for the closure.

In addition, the owner, whom Mothership understands is Chua's father, has decided it has been a "long run" and decided to retire.

Chua shared that while the restaurant has increased staff salaries over the years to keep pace with rising cost of living, it has tried to keep its menu prices affordable.

This has put a strain on the eatery's bottom line.

Chua has also found difficulty hiring.

"Most of the younger generation do not want to work in food and beverage," she opined.

Hooters Clarke Quay first opened in Singapore in 1996.

It was the first international franchise outside of North America and the first outlet in Asia.

There were two other Hooters outlets in Singapore opened by other franchisees after 1996, but those have long closed.

Plans to open new bistro

The Clarke Quay outlet currently employs 10 staff in the kitchen and on the floor, and five office staff. Chua herself lends a hand in the kitchen.

There are plans to open a smaller-scale bistro, and most of the staff will likely follow, Chua revealed.

This new bistro will not be part of the Hooters brand.

Chua shared that there is much sadness surrounding the impending closure, including from her father.

"Most of us literally grew up with this brand over the years, and all of us are feeling sad and nostalgic," Chua shared, adding that it feels like "losing a familiar part around the area".

She added:

"A restaurant that’s been open for 30 years isn’t just a place to eat, it holds memories, routines and connections with people who grew up there. There’s often a sense of gratitude too for all the moments it created, mixed with the quiet feeling that an era has ended."

Chua also thanked customers for their support over the past 30 years.

"We are deeply grateful for every meal shared and every memory made. We say goodbye with full hearts and thank you all for being part of our journey. Thank you everybody for the amazing 30 years!" She commented.

Those looking for one last hoorah can visit Hooters at Clarke Quay during the following hours:

• Monday, Tuesday: 3pm - 12am
• Wednesday, Thursday: 12pm - 1am
• Friday, Saturday: 12pm - 2am
• Sunday: 12pm - 1am

Top image via Hooters / Facebook, Selena Chua