Chi-Chi's delivers a fun Mexican dining adventure at a moderate price. We have become America's favorite Mexican restaurant chain by being a place where customers can get great Mexican and Southwestern food, served in a casual style amidst bright, festive surroundings.
Chi-Chi's is more than a restaurant. It's an attitude. It's a spirit. It's a way of life. We're committed to making sure our guests are greeted with a smile and that they leave with one. Every guest will enjoy fast friendly service and delicious food and drink served in a fun, festive atmosphere. It's what we stand for and is reflected in everything we do.
OUR HISTORY AND VISION:
The first Chi-Chi's opened in Minneapolis in 1976. A visit to California, and exposure to the great tastes and fun attitude of Mexican food convinced Marno McDermott, a University of Minnesota graduate, that this was a food and drink concept worth sharing. Working with Max McGee (former Green Bay Packer wide receiver) they converted Max's Left Guard Bar into the first Chi-Chi's.
First-year sales reached $2 million, prompting McDermott to shout "Ole". This exuberant declaration was followed by a meeting with stockbroker John Stephens and foodservice executive Shelly Frank who shared McDermott's vision of bringing fun to everyone. They quickly opened new restaurants and franchised the concept. With thousands of happy customers and Frank as president and CEO, Chi-Chi's expanded quickly. From 1977 to 1982, revenues skyrocketed to nearly $100 million as the number of restaurants jumped from four to 92.
With continued growth in the 80's, Foodmaker Corp. acquired Chi-Chi's in 1988. In 1994, the company became a subsidiary of Family Restaurants, Inc., now called Prandium, Inc.
Chi-Chi's has been a leader in introducing Mexican full-service dining to the mid-west and much of the eastern U.S. Signature dishes such as Flaming Fajitas, Outrageous Burrito, Presidente Enchiladas, Santa Fe Steak and Chicken, Aztec Ribeye and Mexican Fried Ice Cream have been enjoyed by millions since the first restaurant opened. Click to preview Menu.
Chi-Chi's has been named "America's Favorite Mexican Restaurant" for eight years in a row in an independent consumer study conducted by Restaurants and Institutions, an industry magazine.
From it's early days as a pioneer in bringing Mexican food to hungry Americans, Chi-Chi's has remained a leader. Today you can still enjoy great tastes and refreshing drinks in a spirited environment at Chi-Chi's in 13 states from Minnesota to Massachusetts.
NUMBER OF RESTAURANTS:
65
GUESTS SERVED:
Over 20 million
EMPLOYEES:
7,000 nationwide
Frechef Foods
