To bean, or not to bean?
That is the question. At least, when it comes to Texas chili it is. Regardless of your feelings on legume inclusion, let's be honest: there's nothing quite like the smell of chili simmering in a heated pot. The slow-cooked beef (or whatever meat you fancy), the garlic, the onions, the cheese, and let's not forget the ever-important chili peppers. It doesn't matter if you're a reigning champion of statewide cook-offs or a newcomer to the dish, chili is a staple of Texas cuisine.
To that point, we've gone ahead and compiled a list of the best places in Austin to grab a bowl of spicy stew. Fortunately, for both you and us, Austin has plenty of restaurants that serve unforgettable bowls of chili. Whether you're craving an extra spicy or traditional take on the dish, you've got plenty of options. In honor of it being COLD, here's Where to Eat Chili in Austin.
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photo via facebook
2401 E. Cesar Chavez St
It only makes sense that one of the top BBQ spots in Austin would also have some of the best chili in town. la Barbecue's brisket chili comes in either a pint or quart, or you can step things up a notch and try one of their menu items that includes the chili. A fan fave is their Frito Pie, which includes this mouthwatering chili, housemade pickled jalapenos, cheddar cheese, black beans, and diced white onion, but don't sleep on their Chili Cheese Dawg or Sloppy Ho, just try 'em all!
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photo via facebook
1100 S Lamar Blvd
TLC is known for being one of the best places in Austin for a great seafood boil, but not everyone knows about the variety of favorite Texas dishes they have on their menu as well. Some of these classics include Chicken Fried Steak, Redfish and Crab, and of course Texas Chili. You can get a bowl or cup of their special blend of Brisket and Ground Beef, Chili Spice and Peppers.
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Various Locations
It's no secret: Waterloo Ice House is practically Austin's go-to restaurant for Texan-infused comfort food. While the menu offers tons of great cuisine, the ice house's chili stands out as an undeniable favorite: "Traditional, mild, all-beef-no-beans topped with cheddar cheese and diced onions." It's safe to say, "we're getting hungry."
Various Locations
Starting way back in 1947, Jim's has served Austin top-notch diner food for more than 70 years. Throughout the years, Jim's has perfected comfort food, especially chili. The restaurant offers "Frontier Signature Chili," a legendary Texas recipe filled with meat, beans, cheese, and onions. Jim's is without a doubt one of Austin's most loyal and rewarding eateries.
Photo Credit: @Bkgq8mog3an
1400 Barton Springs Rd
Green Mesquite is known for its barbecue, and rightfully so. It's an Austin meat-based institution loved by locals and visitors alike, albeit not one as overtly well-known as places like Franklin. What a lot of people don't know is that Green Mesquite has covertly been selling some of the tastiest chili in Austin this whole time. One need only parse the menu, skip past the barbecue and find Bubba’s Chop Beef Chili. It's a huge dish that will have you happily returning to your refrigerator for leftovers.
Photo Credit: @Ashamor
2108 S Lamar Blvd
Whether you're craving a trusty ol' Lone Star on tap or a delicious buffalo burger, Black Sheep Lodge has got you covered, especially in the chili department. The restaurant's "Black Sheep Chili" is a beefy take on the spicy stew, made with or without beans. Here at Do512, Black Sheep remains an office favorite, and their chili is a testament to their greatness.
Photo via Facebook
1409 Lavaca St
Located in the heart of town next to the Capitol building,
Texas Chili Parlor is one of Austin's most dedicated and delicious chili eateries. With a diverse menu that offers innovative and classic dishes like habanero-infused chili and Frito pie, Texas Chili Parlor always delivers. You just can't go wrong with this spot.
Photo Credit: @Matt_tg
2105 Hancock Dr
Billy's on Burnet is a friendly neighborhood burger joint that also serves a mean cup of chili. Served in either a cup or bowl, Billy's on Burnet's chili is a no-nonsense dish that doesn't pull any punches. Unpretentious and bold, this cup of chili is a traditional favorite. Head on out to Billy's and enjoy a friendly bowl.
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MORE CHILI SPOTS IN AUSTIN:
Various Locations
8916 Brodie Ln #100
4403 Avenue B
Have a favorite place in town to get a hot bowl of chili?
