After a 20-year hiatus, Chi Chi’s Mexican restaurant chain is set to make its comeback. Hormel Foods, the owner of the trademarks, has announced a partnership with Michael McDermott, son of the founder, allowing him to revive the brand with new locations expected to open in 2025.
McDermott, an industry veteran who built successful brands Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill, plans to bring an updated dining experience to Chi Chi’s while maintaining its signature taste and Mexican flavor. The decision comes as a month after TGI Fridays filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, marking the latest wave of restaurant closures.
Chi Chi’s was founded in 1975 by Marno McDermott and Max McGee and expanded nationwide before closing in 2004 due to a hepatitis A outbreak. Outback Steakhouse Inc. later acquired 76 locations and converted them to its own brands.
The revival announcement comes as several other restaurant chains have filed for bankruptcy this year, including Tijuana Flats.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/chi-chi-mexican-restaurant-chain-003410518.html