In the midst of what seems like the slow, agonizing death of chain restaurants, a beacon of hope has emerged.

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A long-defunct Mexican restaurant chain is set to reopen its doors after being out of the biz for nearly 20 years. CHI-CHI’S traded in restaurants for grocery store salsa — but that’s all about to change. Here’s what we know.

Twenty years after the final CHI-CHI’S restaurant closed its doors, the once popular Mexican food chain is getting another chance. The founder’s son, Michael McDermott, plans to revive the restaurant with an updated version of the iconic brand through an agreement with Hormel Foods.

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Hormel is the current owner of CHI-CHI’S trademarks, which currently sells several different products you can likely find in your local grocery store. The deal allows McDermott to use the CHI-CHI’S name on his physical restaurant locations — set to open in 2025.

CHI-CHI’S was founded by Marno McDermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee in 1975 and quickly grew to more than 200 locations nationwide before eventually closing in 2004 due to leadership changes.

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Michael McDermott has built a career in the restaurant industry with Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill and is “determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S restaurant experience with modern influences.

“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,” McDermott said.

“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.”

Michael McDermott is determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant experience with modern influences

“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.

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Well, it sounds like as soon as locations are announced we need to plan a trip. We’ll meet you at CHI-CHI’S! In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for the latest restaurant and food news. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss a thing!

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Have you ever dined at Chi-Chi’s? Tell us in the comments.