INDIANAPOLIS -- Some Indianapolis residents and churches are pushing to block the liquor license of a risque restaurant set to open in the Southport area.

The Marion County Alcoholic Beverage Board on Monday recommended against issuing a license for Show-Me's, a bar and restaurant franchise featuring waitresses in skimpy outfits that had been eying the former Damon's Restaurant building at 4530 Southport Crossing Drive, 6News' Rick Hightower reported.

"When the name is Show-Me's, it's evident they're selling more than food," said Marion County City-County Councilor Mike Speedy, who has been leading the charge against the restaurant. "The whole concept is just not a good fit for that location."

Area churches have also been outspoken against the chain.

"This is about the degradation of women. For women to be scantily dressed, inappropriately as waitresses, (it) makes women a sex object," said Kevin Bausman with Southport Presbyterian Church.

Restaurant owners describe Show-Me's as a place where people can get great food and atmosphere and "striking, fun-loving waitresses." They deny detractors' claims that the business debases its women workers.

"They're wrong. Our girls like working there. They do a good job," said President Ron Cote.

There are already three Show-Me's in Indiana -- two in Evansville and one in Terre Haute, while another location is planned for Bloomington. An attorney for the business said they've never faced such opposition.

"I've heard a few concerns about it and none of them are founded in the law," said attorney Bart Herriman.

Show-Me's can open up at the Southport location without selling liquor, but Cote said he will likely appeal to the Indiana Alcohol & Tobacco Commission.

"The neighbors did a good job," he said. "We don't want to go where we're not wanted."