DELAWARE, Ohio — Nearly two decades after closing its doors in the United States, the iconic CHI-CHI’S restaurant chain is making a comeback. The Mexican eatery, known for its festive atmosphere and fan-favorite dishes like fried ice cream, will reopen under the leadership of Michael McDermott, son of the chain’s founder, Marno McDermott.
The revival comes through a new agreement with Hormel Foods, which owns the CHI-CHI’S trademarks. McDermott, who has decades of experience in the restaurant industry, announced plans to relaunch the brand with updated locations in 2025, blending its nostalgic charm with a modern dining experience.
Founded in 1975, CHI-CHI’S grew rapidly and at its peak boasted more than 200 locations nationwide. However, the chain closed its last U.S. restaurant in 2004 following ownership changes and financial struggles. Despite its disappearance from the restaurant scene, CHI-CHI’S packaged products, such as salsas and tortillas, have remained popular in grocery stores.
For many, the announcement has sparked memories of meals filled with chips, salsa, and celebrations. Michael Riley, a Delaware resident, recalls CHI-CHI’S being a cornerstone of his younger years.
“I remember going there a lot back in high school and in college and taking dates there and always enjoyed their Mexican cuisine and especially the salsa and chips,” Riley said. “And I think that that fried ice cream dessert at the end was always something that we looked forward to, so I’m really looking forward to them coming back here in the Columbus area.”
However, not everyone shares the same level of enthusiasm — or awareness. When asked about the CHI-CHI’S revival, a couple of individuals under 30 gave this reporter a blank stare, followed by a look that seemed to ask, “Is this some kind of restaurant for boomers?” It’s clear that for those too young to have experienced the chain during its heyday, the announcement has the mystique of a blockbuster VHS tape.
McDermott says he’s confident that the chain’s classic flavors and an updated approach to dining will resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation. While the location of the first reopening has yet to be announced, Ohio could be among the first to see the iconic brand return, given its strong presence in the state during the chain’s peak, and panache for being a test market for concept restaurants.
For those who grew up celebrating birthdays with sombreros and enjoying margaritas with bottomless nachos, CHI-CHI’S comeback may feel like a welcome reunion. And for those who have never heard of it, well — the fried ice cream alone is worth a try.