For many Americans, Chi-Chi’s was more than a Tex-Mex restaurant. It was a place for birthday dinners, family meals, and celebrations. Founded in the 1970s, the chain eventually grew to more than 200 locations across the country. Fans remember the generous portions, warm tortilla chips and salsa, sizzling chimichangas, and especially the famous fried ice cream.

Now, after nearly two decades away from the U.S. restaurant scene, Chi-Chi’s is back. A revived location in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, quickly attracted former customers curious to see if the restaurant could bring back the experience they remembered. The new restaurant combines classic favorites with newer menu items and a more modern interior, giving the brand a fresh look while keeping its nostalgic appeal.

In August 2026, Chi-Chi’s brought back three dishes requested by longtime customers: the Twice Grilled BBQ Burrito, Seafood Nachos, and Margarita Chicken Tacos. Weekday lunch specials ranging from $10 to $15 have also been added, showing that the revived restaurant is paying attention to what customers want rather than relying only on memories.

Chi-Chi’s return comes with a complicated history. The original U.S. chain suffered financial problems and closed its American restaurants by 2004. Its final years were also affected by a serious hepatitis A outbreak linked to contaminated green onions at a Pennsylvania location, which caused widespread illness and damaged the brand’s reputation.

Today, Chi-Chi’s faces a very different restaurant market. Nostalgia may encourage former customers to walk through the door, but the food and service will determine whether they return. The St. Louis Park location remains open at 1602 West End Boulevard, giving longtime fans another opportunity to experience a familiar name. As the restaurant continues changing its menu based on feedback, its biggest challenge will be turning memories of the past into a reason to keep coming back.