MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Chi-Chi’s, the popular Mexican restaurant chain founded in Minnesota, is making a comeback in 2025 after closing its doors decades ago.

What we know

According to a press release Tuesday, Chi-Chi Restaurants plans to reopen in 2025 under the leadership of Michael McDermott, son of co-founder Marno McDermott.

While exact details are not yet known, Michael McDermott told FOX 9 in a statement that the first two stores will open in Minnesota next year.

“We are thrilled by the tremendous support from new and old fans surrounding the news of CHI-CHI’s return. While we are currently in the early stages of planning to secure financing, we can say the first two stores will be ready to open in Minnesota in 2025. Our goal is to explore the original development path of CHI-CHI’S through both corporate and franchise opportunities in the Midwest and East Coast,” said Michael McDermott.

The popular Mexican restaurant was founded in Minnesota in 1975 by former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee and restaurateur Marno McDermott. The chain expanded to more than 200 locations across the United States but closed in 2004 after a series of ownership changes, according to the press release.

Michael McDermott announced plans to revive the iconic Chi-Chi’s chain after reaching an agreement with Hormel Foods – the owner of the Chi-Chi’s trademarks.

The press release states that under the agreement, Michael McDermott will be able to use the Chi-Chi name for the restaurant locations, which are expected to open sometime in 2025.

What they say

“I still have fond memories of growing up in the CHI-CHI’S™ restaurants that my father built over time, which instilled in me the passion and determination to pursue my own career in the restaurant industry “Michael McDermott, founder of Chi-Chi’s Restaurants, LLC, said in a statement provided. “We have seen the impact our restaurant has had on individuals and families across the country and believe there is a great opportunity to bring the brand back in a way that will resonate with today’s consumer – a modern dining experience with the same great taste and the same Mexican touch.”

What we don’t know

The press release did not say when the restaurants will open in 2025, how many there will be or what locations they will be in.