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Hopkins, MN

Relaunching a beloved Mexican restaurant brand with a scalable franchise model for national expansion.

• Iconic Brand Revival: Once a household name with 200+ locations, Chi-Chi’s is making a comeback after 20 years.
• Experienced Leadership: Led by Michael McDermott, son of the original founder, with a track record of success in restaurant operations and franchising.
• Strong Market Opportunity: The U.S. Mexican restaurant market is valued at $95.3 billion and growing 5.2% annually.
• Franchise Expansion Model: Initial Minnesota locations will serve as a foundation for national franchising opportunities.
• Established Brand Recognition: Long-standing fanbase, strong licensing agreements, and major media coverage signal strong consumer demand.

Chi-Chi’s is making a long-awaited return to the restaurant industry, reviving its iconic brand with two initial locations in Minnesota and a scalable franchise model aimed at national expansion. Once a household name with over 200 locations, Chi-Chi’s built a loyal following with its fresh tortillas, sizzling fajitas, and festive dining experience. Now, under the leadership of CEO Michael McDermott, son of the original founder, the company is bringing back its legendary Mexican restaurant concept with a modern approach, focusing on high-quality ingredients, open kitchens, and an extensive tequila selection.

The funds raised in this offering will support the launch of Chi-Chi’s flagship locations, operational development, and the establishment of a franchise system to accelerate growth. With a $95.3 billion and growing U.S. Mexican restaurant market, Chi-Chi’s aims to fill a gap for a nationally recognized full-service Mexican dining experience. Backed by industry veterans with extensive restaurant and franchising expertise, a strong licensing partnership with Hormel Foods, and widespread media excitement, Chi-Chi’s is strategically positioned to become a dominant player in the Mexican dining sector once again.

Company Info

Chi-Chi’s is relaunching with a franchise model focused on high-quality Mexican dining, starting in Minnesota with plans for national expansion.

Chi-Chi’s is a renowned Mexican restaurant brand that originally gained widespread popularity between 1975 and 2004, with over 200 locations across the U.S. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic menu featuring freshly made tortillas, fajitas, and deep-fried ice cream, Chi-Chi’s is now making a comeback. Led by Michael McDermott, the son of the original co-founder, the brand aims to relaunch with two Minnesota-based locations and a scalable franchise model. The company intends to tap into the $95.3 billion U.S. Mexican restaurant market, capitalizing on growing consumer demand for high-quality, full-service dining experiences.

With the franchise model, Chi-Chi’s plans to expand nationally, leveraging its nostalgic appeal, strong brand recognition, and a modernized dining experience. The restaurants will feature open kitchens, a vibrant bar with over 100 tequila options, and a focus on freshly made tortillas served daily. Chi-Chi’s strategic partnership with Hormel Foods and the company’s seasoned leadership team, including industry veterans with prior successes in restaurant ventures, positions the brand for future growth. The relaunch marks a unique opportunity to invest in a well-known legacy brand poised for a new generation of loyal customers and national expansion.