Chi-Chi’s, once a popular Mexican restaurant chain, faced a steep decline after a deadly hepatitis A outbreak in 2003, which sickened hundreds and led to multiple lawsuits. Combined with financial struggles and increased competition, the chain ultimately filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations in the U.S. shortly after.
While Lakeforest Mall closed its doors on March 31, 2023, the former Chi-Chi’s restaurant inside the mall had remained vacant and untouched since shutting down in the early 2000s. Last year, during an auction for the contents of Lakeforest Mall, we got a rare peek inside the abandoned restaurant. (video below)
Our founder, Mr. MoCo (Alex T.), fondly recalls many of his childhood memories at the Lakeforest Chi-Chi’s. Growing up in Gaithersburg, his family frequently dined there, and it was where he first tried fried ice cream.
“I remember the cigarette vending machine by the entrance and how the smoking and non-smoking sections were barely separated. I felt so grown-up ordering a (virgin) piña colada. And my first taste of chips and salsa at a restaurant—I couldn’t believe they were free!” Alex reminisced.
Chi-Chi’s exited the U.S. market in 2004 when Outback Steakhouse acquired 76 Chi-Chi’s locations for $42.5 million, but didn’t purchase the name, operations, or recipes. While Chi-Chi’s salsa can still be found in grocery stores, operated by Hormel, the restaurant itself lives on in Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the United Arab Emirates.
Chi-Chi’s also had a Rockville location in Wintergreen Plaza, which later became Broadway/Ted’s 355 Diner and is now home to Habit Burger and Jersey Mike’s.
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