EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Hooters — known for its female employees dressing in risqué uniforms, which has stirred online controversy — is rebranding itself as “family-friendly,” including its El Paso locations.

 Hooters aims to rebrand as family-friendly restaurant 

In a report by Nexstar’s NewsNation, Hooters CEO Neil Kiefer said the company is addressing its uniforms to be more broadly appealing to customers.

“There’s nothing wrong with a pair of shorts if fitted properly,” Kiefer said. “But I think in a dining place, there is something wrong [if] they’re in a thong type of uniform.”

With the new transformation, families can come and meet the El Paso Chihuahuas mascot, Chico, during a special meet and greet.

The event will be from 6 to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 29, at 1799 Joe Battle Blvd.

El Paso Chihuahuas’ mascot, Chico, made a special appearance at Hooters. Photo courtesy of Hooters.

In addition to the event, children ages 12 and under eat free from 5 p.m. to close. The kids’ meal choices include the following items:

All kids meals are served with a side and kids’ drink.

According to Hooters, it is one free kids meal per paying adult entree and dine-in only.

“We look forward to hosting a fun event with El Paso’s favorite mascot where families can enjoy a tasty and budget-friendly dinner out together,” HMC Hospitality Group Executive Vice President Andrea Hill said.

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