Guzman y Gomez Brings Mexican Fast Food From Australia to Chicagoland

Mexican fast-food brand Guzman y Gomez (GYG) may have its roots in Australia, but it’s certainly establishing a strong presence stateside as it expands operations rapidly in the Chicago area.

Speaking to RetailWire, founder and co-CEO Steven Marks indicated that Guzman y Gomez would be expanding to a total of seven locations in the region by the end of June 2025, with restaurants opening in Evanston and Des Plaines.

A Focus on Fair Pricing and Fresh Ingredients Distinguishes Guzman y Gomez From Competitors, CEO Says

According to a recent Newsweek report, inflation has influenced menu prices across the board in the restaurant business, regardless of segment. McDonald’s, for example, has seen menu prices surge by around 138% since 2014, while Panera Bread hiked its prices by approximately 68% during the same time frame. On the other hand, Carl’s Jr., Cheesecake Factory, and Subway raised prices by a more modest range of between 7% and 18%, and Applebee’s stood apart from the crowd by lowering prices by 1.32%.

Given the extremely competitive nature of the fast-food business, particularly in an era where customers are becoming more price-sensitive, Marks indicated that Guzman y Gomez was making every effort to cater to guests.

“Now more than ever, we understand the importance of high-quality food that is both filling and affordable. Take our minis range for example. A GYG mini burrito or bowl with grilled chicken is still 285 grams and only costs $5.90,” Marks said.

“And the best part, you still get all of our ingredients prepared fresh daily. You can’t even get a decent burger for that. With menu items like our entire minis range, the $2.50 taco, or our two-for-$22 meal with two mini chicken burrito bowls, two tacos, and two orders of fries, we are always thinking of ways to make our healthy and fresh food accessible to everyone,” Guzman y Gomez’s CEO continued.

With fresh pico de gallo and guacamole made in-restaurant on a daily basis, as well as a focus on quality ingredients — from flank steak to free-range eggs — Marks further emphasized his personal belief that fast food doesn’t need to be equated with bad food and noted that everything about the company’s day-to-day operations is fundamental to proving that belief true.

“A lot of people want to say GYG is fast-casual. We are fast food. Most companies are afraid to be called ‘fast food’ because the perception of fast food has been so poor in the past, but GYG is proud to be re-inventing fast food,” the CEO explained.

“We are proud of how beautiful our restaurants and our fits outs are. When guests come to our restaurants they often think we’re a fine dining restaurant but make no mistake, GYG is a fast-food restaurant with fast-food prices, we’re just what fast food should be,” he concluded.

Guzman y Gomez currently operates locations in Buffalo Grove, Crystal Lake, Deerfield, Naperville, and Schaumberg. Signature menu items include bowls, burritos (including Cali burritos), enchiladas, quesadillas, soft and hard shell tacos, nachos, nacho fries, and an item Marks made a point to mention as a popular favorite — chipotle-seasoned fries.

Chi-Chi’s Restaurant May Also Be Making a (Re)Debut

But Guzman y Gomez may not be the only Mexican restaurant making a splash in the U.S. market.

According to Jacksonville.com, the iconic Tex-Mex restaurant may be making a comeback after having closed its doors more than 20 years ago, having struggled financially before becoming the center of a hepatitis A outbreak.

Now, the son of one of Chi-Chi’s original co-founders, Marno McDermott, is ready to bring the company back. Michael McDermott has made an agreement with Hormel Foods, rights-holder to Chi-Chi’s trademarks, to use the name on physical locations.

“I still have fond memories of growing up in the Chi-Chi’s restaurants that my father built throughout their time, instilling in me the passion and determination to pursue my own career in the restaurant industry,” McDermott said. “We have seen the impact our restaurant has had on individuals and families across the country and believe there is a strong opportunity to bring the brand back in a way that resonates with today’s consumer — an updated dining experience with the same great taste and Mexican flavor.”