Iconic Mexican Restaurant to Open New Locations
A Comeback After More Than Two Decades
Chi-Chi’s, a popular Mexican restaurant chain from the 1990s, is officially making a comeback after more than two decades, a press release announced Wednesday. The resurgence of the restaurant comes after a new agreement with Hormel Foods and the son of Chi-Chi’s founder Marno McDermott, that allows him to use the Chi-Chi’s name on new locations, the release said.
A Brief History
Dermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee founded the chain in 1975, in Richfield, Minnesota the release said, which rapidly grew to more than 200 locations nationwide. However, a series of ownership changes eventually led to the chain’s closure in 2004, the release said. In 2003, the chain reportedly filed for bankruptcy after a series of Hepatitis A outbreaks linked to its restaurants sickened more than 600 people. In 2004, Outback Steakhouse Inc. purchased 76 Chi Chi’s restaurants and converted them to its own brands, TODAY.com reported, which include Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Bonefish Grill.
New Chi-Chi’s Locations to Open in 2025
According to the release, new Chi-Chi’s locations are expected to reopen in 2025, with restaurants combining the “classic Chi-Chi’s restaurant experience with modern influences.” Michael McDermott, the son of Chi-Chi’s founder Marno McDermott, said in the release that the comeback will honor his family’s legacy by blending the classic restaurant experience with modern influences.
Updated Dining Experience and Products
The comeback will also feature packaged products that were popular in its heyday, including salsas, tortillas and seasonings. According to the release, Chi-Chi’s products will be available as new restaurant locations open.
Reaction and Next Steps
It wasn’t immediately clear how many restaurants were set to open, or where locations would be. Followers of Chi-Chi’s official Facebook page reacted to the news with nostalgic memories. “BEST DAY EVER!!,” one comment said. “I have fond memories of going to Chi-Chi’s as a child. It was my absolute favorite! Can’t wait to start going again.”
Conclusion
Chi-Chi’s iconic Mexican restaurant is making a comeback after more than two decades, with new locations set to open in 2025. The restaurant will combine its classic experience with modern influences, offering updated dining options and popular packaged products.
FAQs
* When are new Chi-Chi’s locations expected to open? New locations are expected to reopen in 2025.
* How many restaurants are set to open? It wasn’t immediately clear how many restaurants were set to open.
* Will Chi-Chi’s products be available? Yes, Chi-Chi’s products, including salsas, tortillas and seasonings, will be available as new restaurant locations open.
* Where will new locations be located? It wasn’t immediately clear where new locations would be located.
