Four score and 20 years ago — actually, just 20 years ago — Chi-Chi’s Mexican restaurant closed the doors on its last-standing location after an iconic 30-year run.
Now, because of one of the owner’s sons wants to revive the brand, it is officially coming back, with some minor changes.
A deal struck between McDermott and Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi’s brand, gives Michael McDermott, son of restaurant co-founder, Marno McDermott, use of the Chi-Chi’s name on physical restaurant locations, which are expected to open in 2025.
At its peak, Chi-Chi’s had more than 200 locations and was a premier fast-casual Mexican joint in America. The restaurant was once a thriving spot that rivaled Chili’s and Applebee’s.
The Chi-Chi’s brand has stayed on shelves in grocery stores — Hormel still sells their salsa, tortilla chips and more.
“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,” McDermott says.
Fast-casual Mexican restaurants have been in the news lately, with the sale of the restaurant chain Chuy’s to Darden Foods, who also owns Olive Garden.
With the return of Chi-Chi’s and the expansion of Chuy’s, places like Chili’s better watch their back.
No word at this time where new locations of Chi-Chi’s will pop up, but expect nostalgia to put a line right out the door.
Of all of the side hustles country artists could partake in, opening a bar or restaurant is the most fitting — and very common. After all, many of these stars got their start on a barstool, tip jar nearby, playing their music for anyone who would listen.
These places feel like home for many of these singers. Over the years, several artists have gotten into the bar or restaurant game, and for a select few, brands have turned into franchises with several locations and/or concepts — we’re looking at you, Jimmy Buffett!
Let’s take a look at the country star food and entertainment venues that have opened over the years.
Gallery Credit: Jess
The 2024 CMA Awards took place in Nashville on Wednesday night (Nov. 20), and country music’s biggest stars were all on hand … with a few very notable exceptions.
Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker
Here’s a list of the best country star bars in Nashville for your next bachelorette party.
Gallery Credit: Nicole Taylor