CHI-CHI’S restaurants are set to make a comeback after two decades

• 20 years after last CHI-CHI’S Restaurant closed its doors, once-popular Mexican chain gets chance for revival
• The founder’s son plans to maintain the same good-tasting, Mexican flavors in the updated version of the iconic brand

ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn., 3 December 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Nearly 20 years after closing the last CHI-CHI’S restaurant, the popular Mexican restaurant chain is poised to make a comeback thanks to a new deal with Hormel Foods, owner of the CHI-CHI’S brands. The agreement grants Michael McDermottson of CHI-CHI’S founder, use of the CHI-CHI’S name in brick-and-mortar restaurant locations expected to open in 2025.

The back story
Founded by restaurateur Marno McDermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee in 1975, the CHI-CHI’S restaurant chain grew rapidly in the late 20th century, reaching more than 200 locations nationwide. However, a series of changes in ownership eventually led to the chain’s closure in 2004.

McDermott, who has built his career in the restaurant business with brands such as Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill, is determined to honor its family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S restaurant experience with modern influences.

“I still have fond memories of growing up in the CHI-CHI’S restaurants that my father built throughout their time, which instilled in me the passion and drive to pursue my own career in the restaurant business,” said Michael McDermottfounder 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 flavors.”

Keep the legacy alive
Although there hasn’t been a CHI-CHI’S restaurant in USA In 20 years, McDermott believes the brand will hold a special place in the hearts of those who remember its heyday and remain popular with consumers across the country who enjoy its packaged salsas, tortillas and condiments, which will continue to be available when new restaurant locations opens.

About Chi-Chi’s Restaurants LLC
Founded by Michael McDermottCHI-CHI’s Restaurants LLC is a newly founded company revitalizing the iconic CHI-CHI’s restaurant that proudly served Minneapolis society for 28 years. With a mission to deliver high-quality, value-driven meals in a modern and lively atmosphere, the group is poised for success in their relaunch into the full-service dining industry.

About Hormel Foods – Inspired people. Inspired food.
Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesotais a global branded goods company with over 12 billion dollars in annual turnover in more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include PLANTS^®SKIPPY^®SPAM^®HORMONE^® NATURAL SELECTION^®APPELLATE^®JUSTIN’S^®QUITE^®HORMONE^® BLACK LABEL^®COLUMBUS^®JENNIE-O^® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by US News & World Report, one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized by TIME magazine as a of the world’s best companies, received a perfect score of 100 on the 2023-24 Corporate Equality Index and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives up to its mission statement – Inspired people. Inspired food. — bringing some of the world’s most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.

SOURCE CHI-CHI’S restaurants

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