The beloved Mexican restaurant chain Chi-Chi’s, co-founded by former Green Bay Packer Max McGee, is making a comeback over 20 years after its last restaurant closed.
In a press release on Tuesday, Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi’s trademark, announced a partnership with Michael McDermott, the son of co-founder Marno McDermott, to relaunch the iconic brand. McDermott has formed a new company, Chi-Chi’s Restaurants, LLC, with plans to open an undisclosed number of locations beginning in 2025.
Since the original Chi-Chi’s restaurants shut their doors in 2004, Hormel has kept the brand alive through Chi-Chi’s-branded salsas, dips, seasonings, and tortilla chips available in grocery stores nationwide. Now, Michael McDermott is leading the effort to revive the restaurant experience his family helped create.
A Legacy Reimagined
Michael McDermott, who has built a career in the restaurant industry with brands like Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill, says his vision for the new Chi-Chi’s is a modern twist on the chain’s classic appeal.
“I still have fond memories of growing up in the Chi-Chi’s restaurants my father built,” McDermott said in a statement. “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 new restaurants aim to offer high-quality, value-driven meals in a lively, contemporary setting. While details about the locations, menu, and design remain under wraps, McDermott is committed to honoring Chi-Chi’s legacy while introducing modern influences.
A Beloved Brand Returns
During its peak, Chi-Chi’s was a staple of American dining, known for its festive atmosphere, Mexican-inspired dishes, and famous fried ice cream dessert. McDermott believes the brand still holds a special place in the hearts of many and hopes the revival will rekindle nostalgia while appealing to new generations.
Hormel Foods expressed confidence in McDermott’s leadership and vision, underscoring the enduring value of the Chi-Chi’s name.
The first new Chi-Chi’s restaurants are set to debut in 2025, bringing a taste of its storied past into the future.
