Chi-Chi’s Restaurant Chain Is Making A Comeback Thanks To Owners Son
Chi-Chi, a name synonymous with Mexican food and a favorite of Michigan families, is rumored to be making a comeback. C’mon, you know you miss having a “Chimichanga” and Fried Ice Cream!
Chi-Chi’s 2025 The Comeback Kid
It’s returning in 2025 thanks to a deal involving the founder’s son. According to a news release on Dec. 3, the Mexican favorite will be back, and new locations are expected to open in 2025.
Hormel Foods, now the trademark holder for Chi Chi’s name, announced it had reached a deal with Michael McDermott, the son of Chi Chi’s founder, to allow him to use the name on new restaurant locations.
CHI-CHIS COMMERCIAL (1983)
Chi-Chi’s Back Story
Chi-Chi’s was founded by a former football player, Max McGee of the Green Bay Packers, with the business end handled by restaurateur Marno McDermit.
The CHI-CHI’S restaurant chain multiplied during the late 1980s, reaching more than 200 locations nationwide. However, a series of ownership changes eventually led to the chain’s closure in 2004.
Marno’s Son, Michael McDermott, has built his career in the restaurant industry with brands like Kona Grill and Rojo Mexican Grill. He is determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant experience with modern-day decor.
Can Chi-Chi’s Make A Comeback This Day And Age?
Despite not being around the United States for 20 years, McDermott believes the brand holds a special place in the hearts of those who remember its heyday. It remains popular among consumers nationwide who enjoy its packaged salsas, tortillas, and seasonings, which will continue to be available as new restaurant locations open.
I remember the Chi-Chi’s near Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights. The building is still there.
The Dark Days Of Chi-Chi’s
2003 when a hepatitis outbreak ended up with 636 violently ill customers and four dead. What caused it? Cases of tainted green onions that came from south of the border.
By 2004, it was curtains for the restaurant chain, and it wasn’t really at fault for what happened.
There are still some Chi-Chi’s left in the world, but you’d have to travel to Asia, Austria, Belgium, Kuwait, Luxembourg, the Middle East, or North Africa.
If you still want to relive the old Chi-Chi’s experience until they open again, go to the supermarket. You can still buy the famous Chi-Chi’s salsa, chips, taco sauce, green chiles, and con queso.
Explore 5 of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Mexicantown Detroit
Looking for the best Mexican restaurants in Mexicantown Detroit? Whether you’re a local craving for or in town for the NFL Draft, we’ve got the hook-up! We wouldn’t have a whole area in Detroit dedicated to this cuisine if it weren’t authentically good! But before diving into some of the best spots, let’s talk briefly about Mexicantown’s history and what makes Mexican food authentic.
What Makes Mexican Food Authentic
My husband is Mexican. I asked him what makes Mexican food authentic to him. He said, “To me, authentic Mexican food has minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. So many spices are used to elevate otherwise bland ingredients into something amazing. The refried beans aren’t just pinto beans. And the rice isn’t just yellow rice. The spices that are added to it give it an authentic flavor. For me, authentic Mexican food represents lots of spices & has a colorful presentation. It’s also about the use of traditional kitchen tools. My Mom spent hours making food from scratch with a molcajete (mortar and pestle), tortilla press, and a comal.”
History of Mexicantown Detroit
Mexicantown is such a unique and vibrant area in Detroit. The area itself is considered to be within Southwest Detroit. While it was named “Mexicantown” in the late 80’s, the Mexican population in Detroit started setting in the area in the 1920s due to increased industrial labor jobs. Further surges of immigration decades later increased the population in the area. Not only are there authentic Mexican restaurants in the area, but brightly colored buildings are painted with amazing murals. The area is just so rich in culture. If you’d like to learn more about its history, check out the book “Detroit’s Mexicantown” By Maria Elena Rodriguez.
Where to Find the Best Mexican Restaurants in Mexicantown Detroit
While there are many places to enjoy great Mexican food in Detroit, we’ve narrowed the list to 5 of the best Mexican restaurants in Mexicantown Detroit for you to visit to satisfy your craving. Check out the list below and enjoy!
Armandos
This spot is definitely on many favorites lists. Armando’s was established in the 1960s by Armando Galan and subsequently taken over by the Hernandez family in the 1980s. The menu features traditional Mexican food like tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and more. View it here.
Stop in for a bite at 4242 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Their hours are:
Monday-closed
Tuesday-Sunday 10:30 am-10 pm
