Chi-Chi’s Plans Comeback: Because We Clearly Haven’t Suffered Enough

Brace yourselves, folks—Chi-Chi’s, the so-called “Mexican” restaurant chain that vanished two decades ago after a legendary hepatitis A debacle, is plotting a comeback. Because nothing says “culinary delight” like a side of nostalgia-induced indigestion.

For those who blissfully forgot, Chi-Chi’s was the brainchild of ex-Green Bay Packer Max McGee and restaurateur Marno McDermott, who thought the Midwest was craving a watered-down version of Mexican cuisine. Spoiler: it wasn’t. The chain peaked in the ’80s with over 200 locations, serving up dishes that made Taco Bell look like fine dining.

Fast forward to 2003, when Chi-Chi’s made headlines for all the wrong reasons—a hepatitis A outbreak linked to their salsa that sickened 650 people and resulted in four deaths. Talk about a killer menu. This catastrophe, coupled with financial woes, led to the chain’s demise in 2004. But like a bad burrito, it’s back to haunt us.

Enter Michael McDermott, son of the co-founder, who apparently thinks the world is ready for Chi-Chi’s 2.0. He’s inked a deal with Hormel Foods to resurrect the brand, aiming to open two Minnesota locations in 2025. Because nothing screams “fresh start” like reviving a restaurant synonymous with one of the largest hepatitis outbreaks in U.S. history.

McDermott claims they’ll “bring the brand back in a way that resonates with today’s consumer.” Translation: slapping a new logo on the same old mediocrity. No word yet on the menu, but if history’s any guide, expect a fiesta of blandness.

In the meantime, Chi-Chi’s has survived as a supermarket brand, peddling salsas and tortilla chips to those who enjoy disappointment in jar form. But hey, why stop there? Let’s reopen the restaurants and see if we can set a new record for foodborne illnesses.

So, if you’re in Minnesota and have a hankering for culinary Russian roulette, Chi-Chi’s will soon be there to serve up nostalgia with a side of Pepto-Bismol. Bon appétit.

Remember…

We don’t know about Chi-Chi’s, but we do miss some restaurants from our past – Furr’s, anyone?! Use the comments below and tell us what restaurant you miss from days gone by.

(Full Story)