WKRC in Cincinnati Twenty years after going bankrupt, a Mexican restaurant franchise that formerly had 200 sites across America is about to reemerge. After decades of ownership changes, the last Chi-Chi's Mexican restaurant in the US closed its doors in 2004. The chain was on the verge of going bankrupt when a hepatitis A outbreak in Pittsburgh was linked to a local Chi-Chi's source of green onions.
Additionally, the brand has endured thanks to the continued availability of prepared commodities like tortillas and salsa at supermarkets. According to a news release issued on December 3, the Hormel Foods Corporation said it had negotiated a deal with Michael McDermott, the son of Chi-Chi's founder Marno McDermott, that would permit him to use the Chi-Chi's name on a number of new restaurants that are scheduled to debut in 2025.
McDermott, the founder of Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill, said, "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."
"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 flavour."
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