Chi-Chi's

Chi-Chi's logo

Former Chi-Chi's restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia

Chi-Chi's logo

Chi-Chi's in Brussels - Sarah Stierch

Chi-Chi's is a chain of Mexican-themed restaurants that was founded in 1975 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by restaurateur Marno McDermott and former Green Bay Packers player Max McGee. The name "Chi-Chi's" is derived from the Spanish slang for "breasts," though the founders claimed it was named after a friend's nickname. The restaurant's motto, "A celebration of food," reflects its aim to offer a festive and family-friendly dining experience. Chi-Chi's gained popularity for its extensive menu featuring traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas, in a casual dining atmosphere.

History

Chi-Chi's expanded rapidly in the 1980s, becoming a prominent chain in the United States with over 200 locations at its peak. The brand was known for its distinctive decor, which included sombreros, vibrant colors, and rustic furnishings, aiming to create an authentic Mexican ambiance. Despite its initial success, Chi-Chi's faced challenges in the 1990s, including increased competition from other Mexican restaurants and changing consumer preferences.

In 2003, the chain's U.S. operations suffered a major setback when a hepatitis A outbreak was traced back to green onions at a Chi-Chi's restaurant in Monaca, Pennsylvania. This incident, one of the largest hepatitis A outbreaks in U.S. history, led to numerous lawsuits and significantly damaged the brand's reputation. Subsequently, Chi-Chi's filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2003, and by September 2004, all of its American restaurants were closed. However, the brand has continued to exist outside the United States, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, through franchising agreements.

Menu

Chi-Chi's menu was known for its wide range of Mexican-inspired dishes, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Signature items included the "Mexican Pizza," "Seafood Enchiladas," and the "Fried Ice Cream" dessert. The restaurant also offered a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, with a focus on margaritas and other tequila-based drinks.

Legacy

Despite its closure in the U.S., the Chi-Chi's brand has lived on through licensed products, including salsas, chips, and tortillas, which are available in supermarkets. These products allow consumers to experience the flavors of Chi-Chi's at home. Additionally, the brand's international locations continue to operate, serving the chain's signature dishes to a global audience.

See Also

• List of restaurant chains
• Mexican cuisine
• Hepatitis A outbreak
• Chapter 11 bankruptcy