ORANGE – The first Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery to open in Orange County is headed for Orange over the objections of the city’s Police Department.

The chain, known for its scantily clad waitresses in Celtic attire, has more than 50 locations in 24 states and Canada. The Orange location will be at 1625 W. Katella Ave. – inside the Stadium Promenade Center.

That location is an anchor for the mall but has remained dormant since Johnny Carino’s closed in 2008. An attempt to open a Shakey’s Pizza in 2011 failed during renovations.

The city’s Planning Commission on Monday night approved the Tilted Kilt’s application to expand the patio area, offer a happy hour and remain open until 2 a.m. – against the warnings and objections of the Orange Police Department. The Tilted Kilt didn’t need any approvals to just move in.

The commission did deny the pub the ability to charge a cover fee to patrons to see pay-per-view mixed-martial arts events.

“One of our concerns is that this new business model with the Tilted Kilt will bring a different clientele in (than the family Italian restaurant),” said Lt. Jeff Burton.

“They draw a crowd that is predominantly male, which is evidenced by the costumes and uniforms of their servers and the environment. That group creates the most problems for law enforcement when combined with alcohol.”

In giving his approval, Commissioner Bill Cathcart admonished Tilted Kilt franchisee Michael Ayaz to keep the pub trouble-free.

“I hope the applicant will manage the 36-year-olds with testosterone and keep them in line,” Cathcart said.

Ayaz said the concept of the pub will fit in well in the shadow of the Honda Center and Angel Stadium.

“I think the concept growing throughout the country right now is a concept that is very fresh, very new,” Ayaz said. “I think it’s going to be a very welcome addition to Orange County.”

Commissioner Ray Grangoff said the mall needs a successful anchor.

“We’ve had a lot of businesses that were excited about starting and not do well,” Grangoff said. “We needed to try something different.”

Ayaz said the pub is scheduled to open in November.

Contact the writer: 714-704-3704 or efields@ocregister.com