Previously ling-gone Mexican restaurant chain Chi-Chi’sChi-Chi’s is returning to the United States. After 20 years, the chain will open its first location next year.
According to CBS News, Chi-Chi’ sChi-Chi’s revival came following a finalized agreement with Hormel Foods, which gave the company the go-ahead to use the restaurant name on physical locations. Hormel Foods had previously owned Chi-Chi’ sChi-Chi’s trademarks since 1987.
Chi-Chi’sChi-Chi’s was founded by Marno McDermott and ex-Green Bay Packer Max McGee in 1975. A year later, the restaurant opened its first location in Richfield, Minnesota, and expanded to over 200 nationwide.
Unfortunately, multiple leadership changes between the 1980s and 1990s left the franchise in financial hardship. Eventually, the chain was forced to file for bankruptcy in 2003. A deadly outbreak of hepatitis A in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, later linked to green onions sold at a local Chi-Chi’sChi-Chi’s, further damaged the restaurant’s reputation. This resulted in the chain’s location fully closing that year in 2004.
Despite the restaurant closing its physical locations, Chi-Chi’sChi-Chi’s has lived in supermarkets selling packaged items, like salsa, chips, tortillas, and seasonings. Michael McDermott, son of Mark McDermott, is set on his desire to keep his family legacy alive and revive the franchise.
In the press release, McDermott shared his thoughts on the restaurant chain’s revival and his childhood memories of visiting the previous locations.
“I still have fond memories of growing up in the Chi-Chi’sChi-Chi’s restaurants that my father built throughout their time, instilling in me the passion and determination to pursue my career in the restaurant industry,” said McDermott.
“We have seen the impact our restaurant has had on individuals and families across the country and believe there is a strong opportunity to bring the brand back in a way that resonates with today’s consumer – an updated dining experience with the same great taste and Mexican flavor.”
The locations for the new restaurants have yet to be revealed. That said, interested parties may only have to wait until the early months of 2025 for new information.
