50 States, 50 Best Bowls Of Chili You Need To Try
Imagine traveling coast to coast with just one mission: finding the most incredible bowl of chili in every single state.
From spicy Texas-style recipes loaded with beef to quirky Cincinnati versions served over spaghetti, each state brings its own twist to this beloved comfort food.
Whether you’re a chili champion or just love trying new flavors, this guide will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure across America.
1. Alabama: Chris’ Hot Dogs
Since 1917, Montgomery locals have been lining up for a taste of something truly legendary.
Chris’ Hot Dogs serves up a secret family recipe that’s been passed down through generations, creating a chili sauce so good it’s basically edible history.
You can slather it on a hot dog or grab a whole bowl to savor every spoonful.
The recipe remains locked away tighter than a superhero’s secret identity, but one bite tells you everything you need to know about why this place has lasted over a century.
2. Alaska: Tommy’s Burger Stop
When temperatures drop below zero, Anchorage residents know exactly where to warm up.
Tommy’s Burger Stop dishes out a chili so hearty it could probably survive an Arctic expedition.
Packed with tender meat, beans, and spices that hit just right, this bowl is comfort food at its finest.
The generous portions mean you won’t leave hungry, which is crucial when you’re battling Alaska’s legendary winters.
Just saying, if bears could eat here, they’d probably skip hibernation altogether.
3. Arizona: Chili Pepper’s Taqueria
Phoenix heat demands bold flavors, and Chili Pepper’s Taqueria delivers exactly that.
Their Southwest-inspired chili combines traditional Mexican spices with classic American comfort, creating something wonderfully unique.
Green chilies add a tangy kick that dances on your tongue, while pinto beans make it satisfyingly filling.
The recipe reflects Arizona’s beautiful blend of cultures, where cowboy traditions meet vibrant Mexican heritage.
How cool is it when two culinary worlds collide and create something this delicious?
4. Arkansas: Feltner’s Whatta-Burger
Russellville’s Feltner’s Whatta-Burger has been feeding hungry Arkansans since the 1960s.
Their chili recipe stays true to Southern traditions, featuring perfectly seasoned ground beef in a rich tomato base.
Locals swear by pairing it with their famous burgers, though the chili absolutely shines on its own.
The diner atmosphere takes you back to simpler times when drive-ins ruled and jukeboxes played the hits.
Though the name might confuse some folks, this Arkansas original has zero connection to that other burger chain.
5. California: Original Tommy’s
Los Angeles wouldn’t be the same without Original Tommy’s world-famous chili.
Since 1946, this iconic spot has been slinging bowls of thick, meaty chili that locals crave at all hours.
The recipe features a unique blend of spices that creates an unforgettable flavor profile you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you order it on fries, burgers, or straight up in a bowl, it hits different every single time.
If superheroes needed fuel, they’d probably make Tommy’s their official headquarters.
6. Colorado: Buckhorn Exchange
Denver’s oldest restaurant knows a thing or two about satisfying appetites since 1893.
Buckhorn Exchange serves up chili featuring wild game meats that give it a distinctly Colorado character.
The recipe honors frontier traditions when hunters relied on elk, buffalo, and other game for sustenance.
Rich, smoky flavors transport you back to the Old West with every spoonful.
However, don’t worry—the dining experience is way more comfortable than anything pioneers experienced on the trail!
7. Connecticut: The Crabby Shack
Who says chili has to follow the rules?
The Crabby Shack in Milford throws tradition out the window with their incredible seafood chili.
Fresh lobster, clams, and other coastal treasures swim in a tomato-based broth that captures New England’s maritime spirit.
The combination might sound wild, but it works brilliantly, proving that chili can evolve beyond landlocked expectations.
If Aquaman needed comfort food, this bowl would definitely be his first choice for lunch.
8. Delaware: Grotto Pizza
Beach town vibes meet comfort food perfection at Grotto Pizza in Rehoboth Beach.
Their chili has earned a cult following among locals and vacationers who return year after year.
Perfectly seasoned ground beef mingles with beans in a sauce that’s neither too thick nor too thin.
Though the restaurant name suggests Italian food, their chili game is seriously strong.
Where else can you enjoy ocean breezes while warming your soul with a fantastic bowl of chili?
9. Florida: The Floridian
St. Augustine’s The Floridian reimagines chili with a distinctly sunshine-state twist.
Their version incorporates local ingredients and creative touches that reflect Florida’s diverse culinary landscape.
Fresh herbs and unexpected flavor combinations make each bite an adventure for your taste buds.
The restaurant’s commitment to Southern hospitality shines through in every bowl they serve.
Though Florida might not seem like chili country, this spot proves comfort food thrives everywhere, even in paradise.
10. Georgia: The Varsity
Atlanta’s legendary Varsity has been asking What’ll ya have since 1928.
Their chili recipe remains unchanged, delivering the same satisfying taste that generations of Georgia Tech students have devoured.
Simple, straightforward, and absolutely delicious, it’s the kind of chili that doesn’t need fancy ingredients to shine.
The massive drive-in atmosphere adds to the experience, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine.
If nostalgia had a flavor, it would taste exactly like this iconic bowl.
11. Hawaii: Ono Hawaiian Foods
Honolulu’s Ono Hawaiian Foods puts an island spin on mainland comfort food.
Their chili incorporates local flavors and is often served over rice, Hawaiian-style, creating a fusion that’s pure genius.
The combination of traditional chili spices with island ingredients creates something you won’t find on the mainland.
Generous portions ensure you leave satisfied, ready to hit the beach or explore the island.
However, be warned: once you try chili this way, regular versions might seem boring!
12. Idaho: Westside Drive In
Boise’s Westside Drive In serves chili that perfectly complements their famous finger steaks.
The recipe features Idaho beef cooked to tender perfection in a sauce that’s been refined over decades.
Locals know to order it as a side or smother their fries in it for maximum deliciousness.
The old-school drive-in vibe makes every visit feel like a celebration of American diner culture.
Just saying, if potatoes are Idaho’s claim to fame, this chili is definitely running a close second.
13. Illinois: Chicago Chili Company
Chicago knows deep-dish pizza, but the city’s chili game deserves equal recognition.
Chicago Chili Company crafts bowls that stand up to the city’s harsh winters and satisfy big appetites.
Their recipe balances heat and flavor perfectly, creating a bowl that warms you from the inside out.
Thick, hearty, and packed with quality ingredients, it’s exactly what you need after battling Lake Michigan winds.
Where else can you find chili that’s as bold and confident as the city itself?
14. Indiana: Shapiro’s Delicatessen
Indianapolis’ Shapiro’s Delicatessen has been a Hoosier institution since 1905.
Their chili brings deli-style comfort to the table with a recipe that’s stood the test of time.
Perfectly seasoned and generously portioned, it pairs beautifully with their famous rye bread.
The family-run atmosphere makes every visit feel like coming home to grandma’s kitchen.
Though the menu offers countless temptations, locals always make room for a bowl of their legendary chili.
15. Iowa: Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop
Des Moines’ Smitty’s might be famous for pork tenderloins, but their chili holds its own.
This Midwestern recipe embraces simplicity, letting quality ingredients speak for themselves without unnecessary frills.
Ground beef, beans, and time-tested spices combine to create pure comfort in a bowl.
The no-nonsense approach reflects Iowa values: honest, hardworking, and satisfying.
If Superman grew up in Iowa instead of Kansas, this is definitely where he’d grab lunch between saving the world.
16. Kansas: Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Kansas City barbecue meets chili in the most spectacular way at Joe’s.
Their version incorporates smoky brisket pieces that elevate the dish to championship-level status.
The combination of barbecue expertise and chili tradition creates something truly magical that you won’t find anywhere else.
Housed in a former gas station, the location adds quirky charm to an already amazing experience.
However, don’t let the humble setting fool you—this chili could win awards and probably has!
17. Kentucky: Dixie Chili
Newport’s Dixie Chili has been serving Kentucky since 1929 with unwavering consistency.
Their recipe features a unique spice blend that sets it apart from neighboring Cincinnati’s famous version.
Locals debate endlessly about the secret ingredients, but nobody questions the deliciousness.
Served with oyster crackers and cheese, it’s a regional treasure that deserves national recognition.
Though Kentucky is famous for horses and bourbon, this chili might be the state’s best-kept secret.
18. Louisiana: The Gumbo Shop
New Orleans’ The Gumbo Shop brings Louisiana heat to traditional chili with spectacular results.
Their Creole-inspired version features andouille sausage and spices that’ll make your taste buds dance like Mardi Gras.
The recipe honors Louisiana’s French and African culinary roots while embracing American comfort food traditions.
Each spoonful delivers complex layers of flavor that only New Orleans cuisine can achieve.
If chili could play jazz, this bowl would be improvising the most delicious solo you’ve ever tasted.
19. Maine: Sea Dog Brewing Company
Maine winters demand serious comfort food, and Sea Dog Brewing delivers magnificently.
Their beef and bean chili warms cold bones after a day of battling coastal winds and snow.
Locations in Bangor, South Portland, and Topsham mean more Mainers can access this warming treasure.
The hearty recipe proves that New England knows how to do chili right, even without Southern roots.
Where else can you pair exceptional chili with craft beer while watching snow fall outside?
20. Maryland: Chili’s (Local Crab House Twist)
Baltimore takes chili in a completely unexpected direction by adding Maryland’s favorite ingredient: crab.
Local crab houses create versions featuring sweet lump crab meat in tomato-based broths with Old Bay seasoning.
The combination sounds wild but tastes absolutely incredible, showcasing Maryland’s seafood obsession beautifully.
Traditional chili purists might raise eyebrows, but one taste converts even the biggest skeptics.
If Neptune decided to open a chili restaurant, this Maryland creation would definitely be on the menu.
21. Massachusetts: Boston Chili Company
Boston’s chili scene combines colonial history with modern flavor innovation.
Boston Chili Company serves up bowls that warm you after walking the Freedom Trail or catching a Red Sox game.
Their recipe respects tradition while adding creative touches that reflect the city’s innovative spirit.
Beans, beef, and perfectly balanced spices create a bowl that’s both comforting and exciting.
Though Boston is famous for clam chowder, this chili gives that creamy soup some serious competition.
22. Michigan: Lafayette Coney Island
Detroit’s Lafayette Coney Island has been slinging their famous chili since 1924.
The Greek-inspired recipe features a unique blend of spices that creates the city’s iconic Coney sauce.
While traditionally served on hot dogs, ordering a bowl lets you fully appreciate the complex flavors.
The restaurant’s legendary rivalry with neighboring American Coney Island makes the experience even more fun.
However, locals swear Lafayette’s version is the champion, though you should definitely taste both and decide yourself!
23. Minnesota: Matt’s Bar
Minneapolis’ Matt’s Bar invented the Jucy Lucy burger, but their chili deserves spotlight too.
This neighborhood tavern serves straightforward, no-frills chili that hits the spot after battling Minnesota’s brutal winters.
The recipe stays true to Midwestern sensibilities: honest, filling, and unpretentious.
Locals love ordering it alongside their famous cheese-stuffed burgers for the ultimate comfort food combination.
Though the spelling of Jucy might be unconventional, there’s nothing unusual about how delicious this chili tastes.
24. Mississippi: The Mayflower Cafe
Jackson’s Mayflower Cafe has been feeding Mississippians since 1935 with unwavering quality.
Their chili brings Southern hospitality to every bowl with a recipe that’s been perfected over decades.
Tender meat, traditional spices, and that indefinable something that makes Southern cooking special combine beautifully.
The retro atmosphere transports you back to an era when diners were community gathering places.
If time travel existed, this restaurant would be the perfect destination for experiencing authentic mid-century comfort food.
25. Missouri: O.T. Hodge Chile Parlor
St. Louis’ O.T. Hodge Chile Parlor has been serving their famous recipe since 1904.
Their spelling of chile with an ‘e’ hints at the unique approach that sets them apart.
The secret recipe creates a thinner, more soup-like consistency that’s distinctly different from Texas-style thickness.
Generations of St. Louis families have made eating here a treasured tradition passed down through time.
Where else can you taste a recipe that’s survived two world wars and countless food trends?
26. Montana: The Montana Club
Montana’s vast ranching heritage shines through in The Montana Club’s exceptional chili.
Their recipe showcases the state’s premium beef, raised on open ranges under Big Sky Country’s endless horizons.
Hearty portions reflect Montana’s appreciation for substantial meals that fuel outdoor adventures.
The Western atmosphere makes you feel like a cowboy coming in from the trail, hungry and ready to eat.
Though Montana might be famous for mountains and wildlife, this chili proves the state’s culinary scene rocks too.
27. Nebraska: Runza
Nebraska’s beloved Runza chain serves chili that Cornhuskers crave year-round.
Their recipe complements their famous bread pockets perfectly, offering a classic take on comfort food.
Ground beef and beans mingle in a sauce that’s neither too spicy nor too mild, hitting that perfect middle ground.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for everyone from farmers to football fans.
If you’ve never experienced Nebraska’s unique food culture, this chili is an excellent starting point.
28. Nevada: Chili’s Grill (Las Vegas Strip Special)
Las Vegas does everything bigger, and their chili follows that same philosophy.
Strip restaurants serve loaded bowls piled high with toppings like a culinary slot machine jackpot.
Cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and more create towering presentations that Instagram dreams are made of.
The combination of quality ingredients and Vegas showmanship makes every bowl feel like a special event.
However, what happens in Vegas might stay in Vegas, but this chili’s flavor will haunt your memories forever!
29. New Hampshire: Tuckerman Brewing Company
Conway’s Tuckerman Brewing Company proves New Hampshire knows how to warm winter souls.
Their chili incorporates craft beer into the recipe, adding depth and complexity that beer lovers appreciate.
Located near the White Mountains, it’s the perfect meal after skiing or hiking through stunning landscapes.
The combination of hearty chili and exceptional beer creates an experience that’s pure New England magic.
Though the state motto is Live Free or Die, we’d add Or Eat This Chili to that list!
30. New Jersey: Rutt’s Hut
Clifton’s Rutt’s Hut has been a Jersey institution since 1928, famous for rippers and chili.
Their chili sauce tops their deep-fried hot dogs but shines equally well in a bowl by itself.
The recipe reflects New Jersey’s no-nonsense attitude: straightforward, flavorful, and satisfying without pretension.
Locals and travelers alike make pilgrimages here to experience authentic Garden State comfort food.
If you’re traveling the Jersey Turnpike and skip this spot, you’re missing out on something truly special.
31. New Mexico: The Shed
Santa Fe’s The Shed asks the state’s famous question: Red or green chili?
Their versions honor New Mexico’s chile pepper heritage, using locally grown Hatch chiles for authentic flavor.
The red offers earthy, slightly sweet notes while the green brings fresh, tangy heat to your palate.
Can’t decide? Order Christmas and get both colors creating a beautiful, delicious combination.
Though we’re talking about chili the dish, New Mexico’s chile peppers deserve their own superhero origin story!
32. New York: Big Nick’s Burger Joint
Manhattan’s Upper West Side institution Big Nick’s serves chili that fuels the city that never sleeps.
Their recipe packs enough flavor to satisfy even the most demanding New York palates.
Open late into the night, it’s the perfect meal after Broadway shows or exploring the city’s endless attractions.
The enormous menu offers countless options, but locals know the chili is always a winning choice.
Where else can you eat world-class chili while people-watching through windows overlooking bustling New York streets?
33. North Carolina: Skylight Inn BBQ (Chili Special)
Ayden’s legendary Skylight Inn takes their world-famous barbecue expertise and applies it to chili.
Their special version incorporates tender pulled pork with Eastern North Carolina’s signature vinegar-based flavors.
The combination creates something uniquely Carolina that you absolutely won’t find anywhere else in America.
The restaurant’s dome-topped building makes it impossible to miss, like a beacon calling hungry travelers.
Though the whole hog barbecue made them famous, this chili proves they’re masters of multiple comfort foods.
34. North Dakota: Kroll’s Diner
Bismarck’s Kroll’s Diner understands that North Dakota winters require serious comfort food ammunition.
Their chili delivers warmth and satisfaction with a recipe that’s been feeding locals for generations.
Simple, honest ingredients combine to create a bowl that’s perfect after ice fishing or braving subzero temperatures.
The diner atmosphere feels like visiting your favorite aunt’s kitchen, welcoming and unpretentious.
If you survive a North Dakota winter fueled by this chili, you can probably survive anything life throws at you.
35. Ohio: Camp Washington Chili
Cincinnati’s Camp Washington Chili serves the city’s unique take on this classic dish with pride.
Their version goes over spaghetti instead of being served in a bowl, creating the famous Cincinnati-style experience.
Mediterranean spices like cinnamon and chocolate give it a distinctive flavor profile that surprises first-timers.
Order it five-way with cheese, onions, and beans for the complete Cincinnati experience.
Though purists might argue this isn’t real chili, Cincinnatians will fight anyone who disrespects their beloved local treasure.
36. Oklahoma: Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
Oklahoma City’s Stockyards District houses Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, serving chili since 1910.
Their recipe reflects the state’s ranching heritage with premium beef that’s fork-tender and flavorful.
The Old West atmosphere transports you back to when cowboys drove cattle through these same streets.
Hearty and filling, it’s exactly what you’d want after a long day on the range or exploring Oklahoma.
If John Wayne were still around, this is definitely where he’d stop for a bowl between filming Westerns.
37. Oregon: Pine State Biscuits
Portland’s Pine State Biscuits brings Pacific Northwest creativity to traditional Southern comfort food.
Their chili features local ingredients and pairs perfectly with their famous fluffy buttermilk biscuits.
The combination honors both Southern traditions and Oregon’s farm-to-table philosophy beautifully.
Generous portions mean you’ll leave satisfied, ready to explore Portland’s quirky neighborhoods and food carts.
Where else can you experience Southern comfort food filtered through Oregon’s wonderfully weird culinary lens?
38. Pennsylvania: Pat’s King of Steaks (Chili Special)
Philadelphia’s Pat’s King of Steaks invented the cheesesteak, but their chili deserves attention too.
Their version complements their famous sandwiches perfectly, offering another way to experience their quality beef.
The recipe stays simple, letting the meat quality shine without unnecessary complications or trendy additions.
Open 24 hours, it’s available whenever hunger strikes, whether that’s lunchtime or three in the morning.
Though tourists come for cheesesteaks, locals know the chili is equally worthy of Philadelphia’s passionate food loyalty.
39. Rhode Island: Ogie’s Trailer Park
Providence’s Ogie’s Trailer Park serves the hilariously named 600 Minute Chili that’s worth every second of wait time.
Ground beef mingles with three types of beans, pickled jalapeños, cheese, and sour cream creating flavor explosion.
The combination is hearty enough to fuel you through Rhode Island’s cold winters and beach summers alike.
The restaurant’s trailer park theme adds playful fun to an already delicious dining experience.
If patience is a virtue, then this slow-cooked chili is basically sainthood in a bowl!
40. South Carolina: Pawley’s Front Porch
Pawley’s Front Porch brings Low Country flavor to traditional chili with spectacular coastal flair.
Their recipe incorporates Southern spices and local ingredients that reflect South Carolina’s rich culinary traditions.
Located near beautiful beaches, it’s the perfect meal after a day of soaking up sun and surf.
The porch-style atmosphere makes you feel like you’re dining at a friend’s beach house rather than a restaurant.
Though South Carolina is famous for barbecue and shrimp, this chili proves the state’s food scene has incredible depth.
41. South Dakota: Tally’s Silver Spoon
Rapid City’s Tally’s Silver Spoon serves chili that fuels adventures exploring Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.
Their recipe embraces prairie heartiness with generous portions and straightforward, satisfying flavors.
The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone from locals to tourists exploring South Dakota’s natural wonders.
Simple ingredients prepared with care create a bowl that’s comforting without being complicated or pretentious.
If the presidents carved into Mount Rushmore could eat lunch, they’d probably all agree this chili rocks!
42. Tennessee: Jack’s Bar-B-Que
Nashville’s Jack’s Bar-B-Que combines Tennessee’s smoking expertise with traditional chili for incredible results.
Their version features tender smoked meat that adds depth and complexity you won’t find in regular recipes.
Located near Broadway’s famous honky-tonks, it’s perfect fuel before catching live music shows.
The combination of barbecue tradition and chili comfort creates something uniquely Nashville that tourists and locals both love.
If country music had a flavor, it would probably taste exactly like this smoky, soulful bowl.
43. Texas: Texas Chili Parlor
Austin’s Texas Chili Parlor serves the real deal: no beans allowed, just like Texas tradition demands.
Generous chunks of beef swim in a rich, spicy sauce that represents everything Texas chili should be.
The recipe stays true to cowboy origins when beans were considered filler for cheap, inferior versions.
Spice levels range from mild to volcanic, ensuring everyone finds their perfect heat match.
However, suggesting they add beans might get you kicked out faster than a tumbleweed in a tornado!
44. Utah: Hires Big H
Salt Lake City’s Hires Big H has been serving Utahns since 1959 with unwavering quality.
Their chili pairs perfectly with their famous root beer, creating a combination that’s pure nostalgic magic.
The recipe balances spices beautifully, creating a bowl that satisfies without overwhelming your taste buds.
Drive-in atmosphere takes you back to simpler times when carhops delivered meals on roller skates.
Though Utah is famous for skiing and stunning national parks, this chili deserves equal billing on travel itineraries.
45. Vermont: The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Burlington’s Farmhouse Tap & Grill brings Vermont’s farm-to-table philosophy to comfort food perfection.
Their chili features locally sourced ingredients from Green Mountain State farms and producers.
The commitment to quality and sustainability shines through in every flavorful, carefully crafted spoonful.
Paired with Vermont craft beer, it’s an experience that celebrates everything great about New England.
If Ben and Jerry made chili instead of ice cream, it would probably taste pretty similar to this amazing bowl.
46. Virginia: Ben’s Chili Bowl
Though technically serving the DC area, Ben’s Chili Bowl represents Virginia’s contribution to chili greatness.
Since 1958, they’ve been serving their famous half-smoke sausages topped with incredible chili sauce.
The recipe remains a closely guarded secret that’s survived decades and countless attempts at duplication.
Civil rights history and celebrity visits make eating here feel like participating in American cultural heritage.
If walls could talk, these would share stories about everyone from activists to presidents enjoying this legendary chili.
47. Washington: Pike Place Chowder (Chili Special)
Seattle’s Pike Place Chowder is famous for seafood soups, but their chili special deserves recognition too.
Their version incorporates Pacific Northwest ingredients and creativity that makes Seattle’s food scene legendary.
Fresh, local components combine with traditional chili elements to create something uniquely Washington State.
Located in the iconic Pike Place Market, it’s surrounded by the energy and character that defines Seattle.
Though coffee might be Seattle’s most famous export, this chili proves the city’s culinary range extends way beyond caffeine.
48. West Virginia: Hillbilly Hot Dogs
Lesage’s Hillbilly Hot Dogs serves chili in a converted school bus, because West Virginia does things differently.
Their hearty recipe reflects Appalachian cooking traditions with generous portions and bold flavors.
The quirky atmosphere makes eating here an adventure that’s equally about the experience and the food.
Featured on numerous food shows, it’s become a destination for chili lovers and curious travelers alike.
Where else can you eat world-class chili while sitting in a school bus decorated like a mountain cabin?
49. Wisconsin: Real Chili
Milwaukee’s Real Chili lives up to its name with a recipe that’s been satisfying Wisconsinites since 1931.
Their straightforward approach lets quality ingredients shine without unnecessary complications or trendy additions.
The chili pairs beautifully with Wisconsin’s famous cheese, because everything in this state is better with dairy.
Multiple locations mean more people can experience this Milwaukee institution that’s survived nearly a century.
Though Wisconsin is famous for cheese and beer, this chili proves the state’s comfort food game is incredibly strong.
50. Wyoming: The Local
Jackson Hole’s The Local serves chili that fuels adventures in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.
Their recipe honors Wyoming’s ranching heritage with premium beef raised on the state’s vast open ranges.
Mountain views through the windows remind you that you’re eating in one of America’s most beautiful locations.
Hearty portions ensure you’re ready for skiing, hiking, or whatever outdoor adventure calls your name next.
If cowboys could time-travel to modern Wyoming, this chili would make them feel right at home on the range.
