Chili's® to Open a Unique Scranton Branch Embracing Pop Culture
On April 7, 2025, Chili's® Grill & Bar will officially open its new location in Scranton, Pennsylvania, marking an exciting moment that combines the restaurant's rich history with memorable pop culture references. Celebrated for its role in the beloved TV series that famously featured a fictional paper company in Scranton, this new branch aims to engage fans of both the show and the restaurant.
As guests walk through the doors, they'll be greeted by an eye-catching chalk art mural, crafted by the original artist behind a similar design from the early 2000s. This uniquely themed mural embodying the city's spirit sets the tone for the distinct experience Chili's Scranton Branch has to offer.
The restaurant also boasts a nostalgic homage to some of its most iconic moments on-screen through vintage decor and artwork that reflects the early 2000s aesthetic. One standout feature is the recreated business lunch booth, perfect for snapping pictures reminiscent of the TV show’s humor.
Notably, the Chili's Scranton Branch is the only location to bring back the fan-favorite Awesome Blossom®. This popular appetizer, made from a deep-fried onion that resembles a flower, comes served with the signature Chili's Buffalo Ranch dipping sauce. After being removed from the menu in 2008, the Awesome Blossom® returns precisely where it belongs—celebrated in a city that has held onto its nostalgia.
George Felix, Chili's Chief Marketing Officer, expressed the brand's excitement about this opening, stating, "For decades, Chili's has inserted itself in culture - introducing the now-famous Baby Back Ribs jingle, and most recently unleashing Triple Dipper cheese pulls on TikTok. But we’ve also seen the brand come to life on screen through the years, and that includes being tied to Scranton despite never having a location there. That changes this year with our newest restaurant. A moment this big was way more than a pop-up could pay off, so we created Chili's Scranton Branch to feel like a familiar home to fans."
In celebration of its grand opening, Chili's has invited familiar faces from the Scranton area to feature in advertisements that will bring attention to the new location. Among them are cast members from the originally iconic series, who help introduce the unique restaurant experience through delightful and humorous local TV commercial-style promotions. Melora Hardin, Andy Buckley, and Amy Pietz are included in the advertisements, bringing their comedic charm with a modern twist.
Kate Flannery and Brian Baumgartner, who have their roots in Scranton, have been instrumental in promoting the exciting offerings, including the exclusive Scranton Marg—a special $5 margarita crafted just for the opening day event. As Flannery mentions in one of her segments, "Chili's Scranton Branch has everything you need in one place."
Beginning April 7, merch exclusive to Chili's Scranton Branch will also be available, including special t-shirts commemorating the restaurant's launch. Fans can claim theirs via giveaways on social media, as well as direct purchases from their website.
Located in Lackawanna County, the Chili's Scranton Branch promises not just a meal but an experience that encapsulates both nostalgia and community spirit, eagerly anticipated by loyal fans and newcomers alike. With a unique setup that embraces local pop culture while serving up delicious foods, this is sure to become a vibrant hotspot for residents and visitors.
For more details about the grand opening and to learn about upcoming events, guests are encouraged to visit Chili's official website at chilis.com/scrantonbranch. Whether you’re keen on dining amid familiar vibes or simply looking to indulge in classic American dishes, the new Chili's restaurant in Scranton is set to deliver an experience like no other.