Chi-Chi's Returns: Reviving the Flavor After 20 Years

Chi-Chi's, the Mexican restaurant chain that closed in 2004 after a major hepatitis A outbreak, is set to make a comeback in 2025. Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi's trademark, has allowed Michael McDermott, son of the chain's co-founder, to reopen the restaurants. The revival aims to offer an updated dining experience while maintaining the brand's traditional Tex-Mex flavors. Chi-Chi's branding will continue to be used for packaged foods and margaritas, as the chain seeks to capitalize on nostalgia amid mixed fortunes for other legacy restaurant brands.