Chi-Chi's isn't ready to say “tata-ta” just yet. The chain is poised to reopen some of its restaurants after closing in the U.S. 20 years ago.
Michael McDermott, the son of one of Chi-Chi's co-founders, will be allowed to use the name for the Tex-Mex restaurant, according to a deal announced this week.
Hormel Foods owns the Chi Chi trademark.
Details about the number and locations of restaurants planned to open next year were not disclosed.
“I still have fond memories of growing up at Chi-Chi's Restaurant, which my father built over the years,” McDermott said in a statement about the revived restaurant brand.
“We have seen the impact our restaurants have had on individuals and families across the country, and believe there is a tremendous opportunity to revive the brand in a way that resonates with today's consumers. , a modern dining experience with the same great taste and Mexican flavor. said in News release.
The first Chi-Chi's opened in Minnesota in 1976. The chain grew to more than 200 restaurants across the country before its owners filed for bankruptcy in 2003.
Chi Chi's last restaurant closed in 2004 after facing the largest hepatitis A outbreak in the nation's history, linked to green onions in the salsa.
