Michael McDermott says he is determined to honor his family's legacy by combining the classic Chi-Chi's restaurant experience with modern influences. (PR Newswire)
St. Louis Park, Minn.
A Mexican restaurant chain that closed two decades ago is making a comeback.
Chi-Chi’s restaurants will be reopening locations next year.
A deal has been struck between Hormel Foods, the current owner of the Chi-Chi’s trademark, and Michael McDermott, son of the chain’s co-founder, to use the name and reopen the restaurants.
“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,” McDermott said.
The iconic restaurant served the Minneapolis community for 28 years and grew to more than 200 locations nationwide. Its owners said their mission of delivering high-quality, value-driven meals will now continue in a modern and lively atmosphere.
“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 an updated dining experience with the same great taste and Mexican flavor,” McDermott said.
Chi-Chi’s closed in 2004 following a hepatitis A outbreak at a Pittsburgh-area location traced to green onions served in its complimentary salsa.
CNN reports that about 650 people became ill with four deaths and several hundred lawsuits were filed in what became the largest hepatitis A outbreak in United States history.
McDermott, who has built his career in the restaurant industry with brands such as Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill, said he is determined to honor his family’s legacy by bringing back Chi-Chi’s restaurants.
Specific locations, menu items and designs weren’t immediately released.