Chi-Chi’s, the once-popular Mexican restaurant chain, is set to make a comeback in 2025, after closing all of its restaurants 20 years ago.
This announcement comes after Michael McDermott, the son of the Chi-Chi’s founder, reached a deal with Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi’s trademarks, according to a release.
Why are Chi-Chi’s restaurants returning?
Under the deal, McDermott has been granted the use of the Chi-Chi’s name on physical restaurants.
McDermott has a career in the restaurant industry with the Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill brands, and hopes to bring back the iconic Chi-Chi’s brand in a way that resonates with customers today.
“I still have fond memories of growing up in the CHI-CHI’S™ restaurants that my father built throughout their time, instilling in me the passion and determination to pursue my own career in the restaurant industry,” said Michael McDermott, founder of CHI-CHI’S™ Restaurants, LLC, the new company formed to revive CHI-CHI’S™ Restaurants. “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.”
Who founded Chi-Chi’s?
Chi-Chi’s was founded in 1975 by Marno McDermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee.
How many Chi-Chi’s locations were there?
The restaurant grew to operate more than 200 locations in the U.S., including several throughout Michigan.
When did Chi-Chi’s restaurants close?
After a series of ownership changes, the Mexican restaurant chain closed all of its restaurants in 2004.
Will Chi-Chi’s restaurants return to Michigan?
Chi-Chi’s could open locations in Michigan, but it’s still undetermined at this time. Details regarding where the restaurants will return were not announced in the release.
Will Chi-Chi’s products still be sold at grocery stores?
Even though restaurants closed in 2004, products like salsas and tortillas, were sold nationwide under the Chi-Chi’s name. If you love these items, don’t worry, the plan is to continue selling them as the new restaurants open.
