A national restaurant chain known for its chicken wings and scantily clad waitresses has filed a $1 million federal lawsuit against a Detroit suburb that is refusing to transfer a liquor license to a new location, according to court documents.

Hooters of America, Inc. filed the suit Thursday in U.S. District Court in Detroit, claiming the city of Troy discriminated against the Atlanta-based company and denied its constitutional right to free expression.

The City Council voted 4-3 in June to reject the request by the restaurant.

The restaurant has been open for business in Troy for 10 years, but the owners want to transfer its liquor license to a new location along the Big Beaver corridor in Troy.

Opponents said the business doesn't fit the image the city wants to project along that corridor.

On Thursday, Hooters waitresses staged a protest outside, waving signs with messages like "Give us a hoot, let us scoot."

Patrons can still place food orders, but no alcohol can be served.

Troy's City Attorney told local 4, "Under Michigan law, liquor licenses are discretionary and local municipalities can consider who is applying and where the license is going to be located."