We love when restaurant chains listen to customer feedback and bring back beloved menu items.Many times, when a dish is discontinued, it’s gone for good—and no amount of input can bring it back. But every once in a while, brands do hear the cries of customers.
This month, we shared the news that the fast-casual favorite Chili’s was introducing a new Southwestern Queso. That hit menus on Oct. 7. The all-new cheesy dip featured a mix of American and Cheddar cheese as well as classic add-ins, such as fire-roasted green chiles, onions, and lime juice. However, the announcement was a double-edged sword.
At the same time the Southwestern Queso was announced, the news broke that it was actually replacing two menu items, which have a cult-like following: the Skillet Beef Queso and the White Skillet Queso. Loyal Chili’s patrons have not been happy. Fans on Reddit announced they were “currently in mourning,” and that the Skillet Queso was the “only reason that I go to Chili’s.”
It was a cry heard across the country—and apparently at Chili’s HQ. This week, Chili’s announced that the Skillet Queso is making a triumphant return.
Chili’s Skillet Queso Is Returning to Menus
Queso fans rejoice: Chili’s heard your pleas. On Sunday, Oct. 26, after rumors circulated online, Chili’s took to social media to announce the return of the beloved menu items.
In a reply to fans saying “Justice for Skillet Queso,” Chili’s shared a photo of the Skillet Beef Queso and a basket of chips with the words “Justice is coming,” on the image. Fans were over the moon. “Looks like I’ll be returning to Chili’s,” someone said.
“OMG a corporation that listens to its customers,” said one Instagram fan. “I spent $25 in tolls to get one last Skillet Queso in Jersey and I’ll happily do it again if they bring it back.”
“I literally have cried for weeks over this,” shared another.
“You’re off my betrayal list now,” someone else commented.
Though this announcement was incredibly exciting for fans of the cheesy appetizer, it didn’t quite confirm what happens next. That was until earlier today, when Chili’s shared another post on Instagram. The brand said “Okay we hear you and we hate when y’all are mad at us. We’re working on bringing Skillet Queso back to Chili’s very soon. Stay tuned for a date.”
According to a previous Chili’s press release, the Skillet Queso menu items only accounted for about one percent of total sales, but sometimes you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. With all the buzz around this cancellation and return, we hope Chili’s fans will show up to prove just how much they love this appetizer.
