Chi-Chi's, the once quintessential Mexican restaurant chain that peppered the American dining landscape throughout the '90s, is poised for a resurgence. After shutting its doors over two decades ago, plans are now brewing for the beloved Tex-Mex spot to open new locations in 2025. This information comes from a press release that indicates the revival is being spearheaded by Michael McDermott, the son of Chi-Chi's founder Marno McDermott, and a renewed partnership with Hormel Foods.

Known for its jubilant vibe and signature dishes, Chi-Chi's was a staple in the Midwest and beyond before ceasing operations in 2004 following a string of Hepatitis A outbreaks and subsequent bankruptcy. According to FOX 9, Michael McDermott stated, "We are excited to see the immense outpour of support from fans, new and old, surrounding the news of CHI-CHI’S return." The rollout of the first two stores will signal the beginning of this ambitious comeback, firmly rooted in Minnesota where it all started.

Despite the past turbulence, the McDermott vision is very much animating the current effort to reclaim a spot in America's culinary heart. As described by NBC Chicago, the new locations will meld the "classic Chi-Chi's restaurant experience with modern influences," catering to the evolved tastes of today's consumers while retaining the chain's fabled Mexican flavor. A release boasted of the planned return of popular Chi-Chi's prepackaged goods as well, such as salsas and tortillas, syncing with the restaurant openings.

Although details are still on the hush, with no word yet on the exact number or placement of the upcoming hotspots, one thing seems certain: the McDermott legacy is coming full circle. "I still have fond memories of growing up in the CHI-CHI'S™ restaurants that my father built throughout their time," Michael McDermott reminisced in comments obtained by FOX 9.