Chi-Chi’s Returns: Discover Its First Location After 20 Years
Chi-Chi’s, the beloved Mexican restaurant chain, is set to make a nostalgic return in 2025 after a two-decade hiatus. The first location will open in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, on Monday, October 6.
Chi-Chi’s Comeback Location
The flagship restaurant is located at 1602 West End Blvd. in St. Louis Park. It will welcome customers at 11 a.m. local time. To provide guests with a taste of the past, Chi-Chi’s features a “refreshed design” paired with a mix of original recipes and innovative additions.
Menu Highlights
Chi-Chi’s menu will bring back some fan favorites while introducing new items:
- CHI-CHI’s Original Chimichanga: Crispy chimichangas filled with beef, chicken, or short rib.
- Quesabirria Tacos: Tacos filled with slow-cooked beef and Oaxaca cheese, served with consommé.
- Seafood Enchiladas: Shrimp and crab topped with lobster cream sauce.
- Manchego Burger: Angus beef burger with manchego cheese, avocado, and chipotle mayonnaise.
- Original Nachos Grande: Tortilla chips with refried beans, ground beef, and cheese.
- El Burro Con Queso: Burrito with ground beef or chicken, cheese, and ranchero sauce.
New Ownership and Vision
Michael McDermott, son of co-founder Marno McDermott, expressed excitement about reviving the brand. He emphasized that the company aims to bring back the food, energy, and joy Chi-Chi’s is known for, catering to both returning customers and a new generation.
History of Chi-Chi’s
After filing for bankruptcy in October 2003, Chi-Chi’s closed its last U.S. restaurant in 2004. A tragic incident linked to food safety led to several illnesses and fatalities, impacting its reputation significantly. In 2024, Chi-Chi’s reached an agreement with Hormel Foods to use the brand name and open new locations.
Future Plans
More Chi-Chi’s locations are anticipated following the St. Louis Park opening. The restaurant has successfully raised over $2.3 million from more than 2,000 investors through an equity crowdfunding initiative. As the campaign nears its conclusion, potential investors can learn more at StartEngine.
The return of Chi-Chi’s promises to be a thrilling event for fans of the chain, blending cherished memories with contemporary dining experiences.
