After 20 years, this well-liked eatery from the 1980s and 1990s, which had multiple locations across Indiana, is about to reappear.
We frequented a number of restaurants throughout our childhood in the 1990s that are now closed. We may all probably think of a handful things we miss. For me, those include Lonestar Steakhouse, Showbiz Pizza Place, Ponderosa Steakhouse, and the Old Country Buffet. Other chain restaurants that were once quite successful have also gone out of business throughout the years. I’m really excited about the official reopening of one of those eateries.
One of the most well-liked restaurants when I was growing up in Evansville, Indiana, was a chain restaurant that served fried ice cream, chimichangas, and spicy Tex-Mex food. I was also introduced to Mexican food for the first time. The eatery itself contributed to the popularization of Mexican cuisine. Naturally, I’m referring to Chi-Chi’s.
What Happened to Chi-Chi’s?
Established in Minnesota in 1975, Chi-Chi’s boasted over 200 locations nationwide at its height. The business saw multiple ownership changes in the 1980s and 1990s, according to Restaurant Business. Chi-Chi’s then declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2003. But a few months later, the final nail in the coffin was placed.
An era came to an end in 2004 when Chi-Chi’s closed the 65 restaurants it still had in the US. Nevertheless, the Hormel business, which purchased the rights to manufacture Chi-Chi-branded chips, salsas, and other goods in 1987, has kept the Chi-Chi name alive in supermarkets. However, the well-liked dishes that patrons had been enjoying at their local restaurants for decades were no longer available.
Chi-Chi’s Making a Comeback?!
There is hope for the future just when you thought you would never be able to eat at a Chi-Chi’s again. After 20 years, the chain is expected to return, according to Restaurant Business. Michael McDermott, the son of Chi-Chi’s founder, has signed an agreement with Hormel Foods that will enable McDermott to start operating Chi-Chi restaurants next year. This is fantastic news!
According to the Restaurant Business report, Chi-Chi’s comeback will be a “updated take on the classic Chi-Chi’s experience.” However, particular locations, menu items, and designs were not made public right once. Either way, this is really great news. Are you looking forward to the return?
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