Chi-Chi’s, the Mexican chain that filed for bankruptcy and closed all its locations more than 20 years ago, has reopened its first restaurant. The new flagship opened on Monday in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, with reservations for opening day fully booked.
The brand relaunch is led by Michael McDermott, son of co-founder Marno McDermott. 'Chi-Chi’s is back stronger than ever,' he said. 'We're bringing back the food, energy, and fun that people love, now with a fresh twist for a whole new generation.' The chain originally opened more than 200 locations across the US after its founding in 1975.
Chi-Chi’s filed for bankruptcy in 2003 and shut its last location in 2004, around the time a Pennsylvania outlet was linked to a Hepatitis A outbreak that killed four and sickened over 600. The new menu includes Chi-Chi’s Original Chimichangas, Quesabirria Tacos, Seafood Enchiladas, and the chain’s famous deep-fried ice cream. More than 2,000 people have invested $2.3 million through a crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine, which closes on 1 November.
The comeback was made possible by a 2024 agreement with Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi’s trademarks. A second Minnesota location is planned, with further expansion through franchising. Social media users have welcomed the return, with one Facebook user recalling 'seafood enchilada that was absolutely delicious' and 'deep fried ice cream'.
