Chili’s brings back Halloween item so popular it sold out in just 20 minutes

Chili’s brings back Halloween item so popular it sold out in just 20 minutes

Get ready to embrace the cheesy spirit of Halloween! Chili's is resurrecting a beloved item that sent fans into a frenzy last year: the Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks-inspired couples costume. This quirky and delightful ensemble is poised to make a comeback, promising a fun and memorable Halloween for those who snag it.

The buzz around these costumes is real. Last year, they vanished in a mere 20 minutes, leaving many cheese-pull enthusiasts empty-handed. This year, Chili's is giving more fans a chance to embody their love for this iconic appetizer. Prepare to act fast when they become available!

The "MozzMates" costume, as it's affectionately known, pays homage to Chili's legendary mozzarella sticks. These aren't just any mozzarella sticks; they're a culinary sensation. Last fiscal year alone, Chili's served up a staggering 41 million mozzarella dippers. That's a whole lot of cheesy goodness!

Jesse Johnson, Chili's Vice President of Marketing, perfectly captures the playful spirit behind the costume's revival. He highlights the viral cheese-pull phenomenon that took over social media and how Chili's jumped on the opportunity to create a costume that embodies that cheesy joy. The enthusiasm hasn't waned, and Chili's is thrilled to offer more fans a chance to "be the cheese" this Halloween.

Mark your calendars! The Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks couples costume goes on sale October 1st at 11 a.m. EST. Be prepared to shell out $75 for this unique and attention-grabbing outfit. Given its popularity last year, swift action is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Check Chili's official website on October 1st to secure your "MozzMates" costume.

But the Halloween excitement doesn't stop there. To complete the spooky and festive atmosphere, Chili's is also bringing back its famous Witches Brew Margarita. This bewitching concoction is the perfect complement to your cheesy costume and will add a touch of magic to your Halloween celebrations.

The Witches Brew Margarita, priced at a delightfully affordable $6, is a tantalizing blend of tequila, blue curacao, and green melon liqueur, all mixed with Chili's house-made sour mix. The vibrant colors and unique flavor combination create a truly memorable and festive drink.

Several "MozzMates" Chili's restaurant brand Halloween costumes hanging in clear packaging on a store display.

As if the enticing ingredients weren't enough, the Witches Brew Margarita is garnished with a whimsical witch's broom swizzle stick, adding an extra touch of Halloween flair. It's the perfect beverage to sip on while showing off your "MozzMates" costume or simply enjoying the spooky season.

The resurgence of this popular costume and beverage coincides with significant changes and strategic shifts at Chili's, spearheaded by CEO Kevin Hochman. Hochman's leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing the brand and driving impressive growth.

Hochman's approach focuses on understanding what makes Chili's successful and then doubling down on those strengths. His strategies include streamlining the menu, actively listening to feedback from area managers, and focusing on delivering high-quality food and experiences at a compelling value.

One key aspect of Hochman's strategy has been menu simplification. Over the past two years, Chili's has reduced its menu by 25%, allowing the kitchen staff to focus on perfecting fewer dishes and improving the overall quality and consistency of the food.

Hochman emphasizes that pricing isn't solely about being the cheapest option. It's about providing exceptional value for the price. Customers are willing to pay a bit more if they perceive that they're receiving higher quality ingredients, better preparation, and a more enjoyable dining experience.

To cater to a wider range of customers, Chili's has adopted a "barbell strategy" for its menu. This involves offering both affordable and premium versions of certain items, allowing customers to choose based on their budget and preferences.

In addition to menu adjustments, Chili's has also invested in upgrading its ingredients. Hochman specifically mentioned improvements to the pickles and fries, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing even the seemingly small details that contribute to the overall dining experience.

Illustration of two people in "mozzarella stick" costumes, designed for couples.

Chili's hasn't just been refining its existing menu; it's also introduced exciting new additions. The Big Smasher burger, for example, has quickly become a customer favorite, showcasing the chain's ability to innovate and stay relevant in a competitive market.

The success of these strategic changes is evident in the numbers. Hochman highlighted that sales of the Triple Dipper appetizer have increased by a remarkable 70% between 2023 and 2024, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new menu and improved quality.

These enhancements and strategic adjustments under Hochman's guidance have significantly bolstered the popularity of the well-known restaurant, resulting in a rise of over 50% in contrast with three years prior. His direction has been instrumental in refining and developing the brand, making certain it continues to be a favorite among diners.

Ultimately, the revival of the Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks costume and the Witches Brew Margarita are more than just seasonal promotions; they represent Chili's commitment to fun, innovation, and providing memorable experiences for its customers. So, get ready to embrace the cheesy, spooky spirit of Halloween with Chili's!

With its improved ingredients and creative menu options, Chili's continues to be a favorite location for dinners looking for both convenience and delicious food. The brand's dedication to quality and customer service guarantees it will stay a well-regarded name in the restaurant sector.

The blend of traditional offerings and modern modifications has enabled Chili's to appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes, from individuals looking for familiar favorites to those anxious to try out novelties like the Big Smasher. This flexibility has been critical to the restaurant's ongoing expansion and success.

As Chili's continues to adjust and adapt, the restaurant is committed to keeping consumers happy and surpassing expectations. The comeback of the Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks costume and the Witches Brew Margarita exemplify the brand's dedication to fun, innovation, and providing unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're an enthusiastic Halloween lover or simply looking to have a memorable supper, Chili's has a number of alternatives to satisfy your demands. Make sure you don't miss out on the thrills and deliciousness as Chili's continues to redefine the eating experience.