AI-assisted summary
• The revival is led by Michael McDermott, son of the chain's founder, in partnership with Hormel Foods, which owns the Chi-Chi's trademarks.
• The first two new Chi-Chi's restaurants are expected to open in Minnesota in 2025, with plans to expand in the Midwest and East Coast.
• While details about the menu and atmosphere are still under wraps, McDermott aims to blend the classic Chi-Chi's experience with modern elements.

The 1990s really are back. A Mexican restaurant chain that peaked in popularity back when "Friends" was airing new episodes plans to return in 2025.

Chi-Chi's restaurant announced an agreement on Tuesday with Hormel Foods, an Austin, Minnesota-based global food company that owns Chi-Chi's trademarks, the release said.

The agreement will grant Michael McDermott, son of the Chi-Chi's founder Marno McDermott, use of the Chi-Chi's name on restaurant locations expected to open in 2025, the restaurant chain said.

"I still have fond memories of growing up in the Chi-Chi's restaurants that my father built throughout their time, instilling in me the passion and determination to pursue my own career in the restaurant industry," Michael McDermott, founder of Chi-Chi's Restaurants, said in a statement. "We have seen the impact our restaurant has had on individuals and families across the country and believe there is a strong opportunity to bring the brand back in a way that resonates with today's consumer – an updated dining experience with the same great taste and Mexican flavor."

McDermott added that he is determined to keep his family’s legacy alive “by combining the classic Chi-Chi's restaurant experience with modern influences."

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Here is what we know about Chi-Chi’s restaurant return.

Chi-Chi's restaurant history

Founded by restaurateur Marno McDermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee in 1975, the restaurant grew to over 200 locations across the country, Chi-Chi's said.

After years of success, the company announced it would stop its operations in 2004. The decision was made after a series of ownership changes, the restaurant said.

“Although there has not been a Chi-Chi's restaurant in the United States in 20 years, McDermott believes the brand holds a special place in the hearts of those who remember its heyday and remains popular among consumers nationwide who enjoy its packaged salsas, tortillas, and seasonings, which will continue to be available as new restaurant locations open," Chi-Chi's said.

Chi-Chi's restaurant plans to open first new locations in Minnesota

The full details of the Chi-Chi restaurants that will open in 2025 are still pending. However, the restaurant chain’s owner did confirm that two locations are set to open next year.

“While we are currently in the early stages of planning by securing funding, we can say the first two stores will be opened in Minnesota in 2025,” Michael McDermott said in a statement. “Our goal is to explore the original development path Chi Chi’s took, through both company and franchised opportunities within the Midwest and East Coast.”

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, food recalls, health, lottery, and public policy stories. Email her at [email protected]. Follow her on Instagram, Threads, and X (Twitter) @forbesfineest.