Texas-style chili has made its way to Los Angeles, bringing a taste of the Lone Star State to Southern California. This hearty, meaty dish is known for its bold flavors and lack of beans, setting it apart from other regional chili variations.
Los Angeles offers several spots where chili enthusiasts can find authentic Texas-style chili to satisfy their cravings. From dedicated chili joints to Tex-Mex restaurants and barbecue spots, the city provides options for those seeking this iconic dish. These establishments aim to recreate the flavors and textures that have made Texas chili a beloved culinary tradition.
1) The Chili Cook-Off at Chili John’s
Chili John’s in Los Angeles hosts an annual chili cook-off that draws enthusiasts from across the city. This event showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Texas-style chili.
Participants compete to create the best no-bean chili, staying true to Texas tradition. The competition is fierce, with contestants vying for the title of best chili in LA.
Judges evaluate entries based on flavor, texture, and adherence to Texas chili standards. The winning recipe often features a perfect balance of meat, spices, and rich sauce.
Attendees can sample various chili entries and vote for their favorites. This interactive element adds to the excitement of the event and gives patrons a taste of diverse chili styles.
The cook-off not only celebrates chili but also fosters a sense of community among food lovers. It’s an opportunity for chili aficionados to share techniques and swap stories.
Winners of the Chili John’s cook-off gain local recognition and sometimes see their recipes featured on the restaurant’s menu. This event has become a highlight for LA’s Texas chili fans.
2) Langer’s Deli No. 19 Pastrami Chili
Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant, a Los Angeles institution since 1947, has gained fame for its world-renowned pastrami. While not traditionally associated with Texas-style chili, Langer’s has created a unique fusion dish that marries their iconic pastrami with hearty chili.
The No. 19 Pastrami Chili takes inspiration from Langer’s famous No. 19 sandwich, which features their celebrated pastrami, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw. This innovative chili incorporates tender chunks of their signature pastrami, adding a smoky depth to the rich, beefy base.
Langer’s blend of spices and seasonings in the chili complements the pastrami’s flavor profile, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. The addition of melted Swiss cheese pays homage to the original sandwich, providing a creamy texture to the robust chili.
This unexpected twist on Texas-style chili offers a taste of Los Angeles culinary creativity. Langer’s Deli continues to push boundaries while honoring its roots, making the No. 19 Pastrami Chili a must-try for both chili enthusiasts and pastrami lovers alike.
3) Pink’s Famous Chili Dog
Pink’s Hot Dogs, a Los Angeles institution since 1939, serves up one of the city’s most iconic chili dogs. Located at the corner of Melrose and La Brea, this legendary eatery attracts both celebrities and locals alike.
The Famous Chili Dog at Pink’s features a juicy hot dog nestled in a soft bun, generously topped with their signature chili. A sprinkle of diced onions adds a pleasant crunch and bite to the savory combination.
While not strictly Texas-style, Pink’s chili dog offers a taste that has become synonymous with Los Angeles street food culture. The chili recipe, a closely guarded secret, boasts a rich, meaty flavor that complements the hot dog perfectly.
Visitors can customize their chili dog with additional toppings like nacho cheese for a small upcharge. The menu also features over 40 hot dog variations, but the classic chili dog remains a perennial favorite.
Pink’s often draws long lines, especially during peak hours. However, many patrons find the wait worthwhile for a taste of this Los Angeles culinary landmark.
4) Original Tommy’s Chili Burger
Original Tommy’s has been serving up chili-topped burgers in Los Angeles since 1946. While not strictly Texas-style chili, their famous chili burger has become an iconic LA food.
The chili at Tommy’s is a thick, meaty concoction that smothers their all-beef patties. It’s mild in spice but rich in flavor, with a consistency somewhere between a sauce and a stew.
Tommy’s chili burgers come loaded with fresh tomatoes, onions, and pickles. The chili adds a savory, slightly tangy kick that complements the beef patty perfectly.
For the full experience, pair a chili burger with Tommy’s chili cheese fries. The original Beverly Boulevard location is open 24/7, making it ideal for late-night cravings.
While purists might argue it’s not authentic Texas chili, Tommy’s version has earned its place in LA culinary history. It offers a unique take on chili that has satisfied Angelenos for decades.
5) Chili Cheese Fries at Carney’s
Carney’s, a family-owned establishment since 1975, offers a unique dining experience in a converted railroad car. While known for their hamburgers and hot dogs, their chili cheese fries are a hidden gem.
The fries at Carney’s are crispy and golden, providing the perfect base for their hearty chili. The chili is rich and flavorful, with a blend of spices that gives it a distinctly Texan flair.
Topped with melted cheese, these fries become a indulgent treat. The cheese melts into the chili, creating a gooey, savory combination that clings to each fry.
Carney’s commitment to using fresh ingredients shines through in this dish. The quality of each component elevates the chili cheese fries from a simple side to a memorable part of the meal.
Located on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, Carney’s is easily accessible for those seeking a taste of Texas-inspired chili in Los Angeles. Their chili cheese fries offer a satisfying way to experience authentic flavors in a casual setting.
6) The Chili Con Carne at El Tepeyac Cafe
El Tepeyac Cafe, a beloved institution in East Los Angeles since 1956, offers a unique take on chili con carne. While primarily known for their massive burritos, their chili dish holds its own as a hearty, flavorful option.
The chili con carne at El Tepeyac Cafe combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, spicy sauce. It’s served piping hot, often accompanied by warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
El Tepeyac’s version of chili con carne reflects the restaurant’s Mexican-American heritage. The dish incorporates traditional Mexican spices and flavors while maintaining the hearty, meat-centric profile of Texas-style chili.
Visitors to El Tepeyac Cafe can enjoy their chili con carne in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant’s long-standing presence in the community adds to the authentic dining experience.
While not as famous as some of their other menu items, El Tepeyac’s chili con carne provides a satisfying option for those seeking a taste of Texas-style chili in Los Angeles. It’s a testament to the restaurant’s ability to offer diverse, flavorful dishes beyond their signature burritos.
7) Brent’s Deli Classic Chili Bowl
Brent’s Deli offers a hearty Classic Chili Bowl that brings a taste of Texas to Los Angeles. This family-owned establishment has been serving quality meals since 1967, earning acclaim for its traditional recipes.
The chili at Brent’s Deli features a rich, meaty base with a blend of spices that captures the essence of Texas-style chili. Tender chunks of beef simmer in a thick, flavorful sauce that warms the soul.
Diners can customize their chili bowl with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream. The generous portion size ensures a satisfying meal for even the heartiest appetites.
While Brent’s Deli is known for its mile-high reuben sandwich, their Classic Chili Bowl has become a popular choice among patrons seeking comfort food with a Southwestern flair. The dish pairs well with their fresh-baked cornbread.
Located in Southern California, Brent’s Deli provides a cozy atmosphere for enjoying their Classic Chili Bowl. It’s an unexpected but welcome find for those craving authentic Texas-style chili in Los Angeles.
8) Jinky’s Cafe Southwest Chili
Jinky’s Cafe in Los Angeles offers a unique take on Texas-style chili with their Southwest Chili. This popular dish combines traditional chili ingredients with a Southwestern flair.
The cafe’s menu features over 20 varieties of gourmet chili, ranging from mild to fiery hot. Their Southwest Chili incorporates regional flavors and spices characteristic of the American Southwest.
Jinky’s serves their chili with classic accompaniments, including cheddar cheese, onions, and sour cream. Garlic bread is also provided on the side, allowing diners to soak up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
For those with dietary restrictions, Jinky’s chili options are gluten-free. The cafe also offers vegetarian and vegan chili variations, ensuring that all customers can enjoy their signature dish.
Jinky’s Cafe has multiple locations throughout the Los Angeles area, making it convenient for chili enthusiasts to satisfy their cravings. The Southwest Chili can be enjoyed in-house or ordered for takeout and delivery.
9) Philippe The Original Chili
Philippe The Original offers a classic chili that stands out among Los Angeles eateries. This historic establishment, known for inventing the French Dipped Sandwich, also serves up a hearty chili dish.
The chili at Philippe’s can be ordered with or without beans, catering to different preferences. The bean version features tender legumes that complement the rich flavor profile.
Spices are carefully balanced, providing a pleasant heat that enhances rather than overwhelms the taste. This allows diners to fully appreciate the complex flavors without reaching for water.
Ground beef is generously incorporated, ensuring meaty bites throughout the dish. Unlike some places where meat is scarce, Philippe’s chili delivers a satisfying protein content.
While not strictly Texas-style, Philippe’s chili has earned praise for its simplicity and quality ingredients. It serves as a comforting side dish or can be enjoyed as a main course.
Visitors to Philippe The Original can pair their chili with the restaurant’s famous French Dip sandwiches or enjoy it on its own. The chili exemplifies the establishment’s commitment to straightforward, flavorful fare.
10) The Waffle’s Tex-Mex Chili
The Waffle in Los Angeles offers a unique twist on Texas-style chili with their Tex-Mex version. This dish combines traditional Texas chili flavors with Mexican-inspired ingredients.
The chili features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, spicy sauce. It’s seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and other aromatic spices that give it a distinctive Tex-Mex flair.
Topped with shredded cheese, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream, The Waffle’s chili provides a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The restaurant serves it alongside warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
Diners can customize their chili experience by adding extras like jalapeños or avocado. The Waffle’s Tex-Mex Chili offers a tasty option for those seeking a hearty, flavorful meal with a Southwestern twist in Los Angeles.
History of Texas Style Chili
Texas style chili traces its roots to the 1800s in San Antonio. A group of women known as the Chili Queens pioneered this iconic dish, selling it from stands in Military Plaza.
The original Texas chili consisted primarily of meat and dried chiles. Notably absent were beans and tomatoes, ingredients still considered non-traditional by purists today.
Chili’s popularity spread beyond Texas in the early 1900s, aided by the invention of packaged chili powder. This allowed home cooks across the country to recreate the flavors of Texas chili.
The dish gained further recognition when it was named the official state dish of Texas in 1977. This cemented its place in American culinary history.
International chili competitions now enforce strict rules about ingredients, often prohibiting beans and tomatoes to maintain the dish’s authenticity.
Texas chili’s simplicity – meat, chiles, and spices – has remained largely unchanged for over a century. This adherence to tradition is a point of pride for many Texans and chili enthusiasts.
Key Ingredients for Authenticity
Authentic Texas-style chili relies on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The right combination of meat and spices creates the distinctive flavors that define this iconic dish.
Meat Choices
Beef is the cornerstone of authentic Texas chili. Chuck roast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, is a popular choice for its rich flavor and tender texture when slow-cooked. Some recipes call for ground beef, but diced meat is more traditional.
Brisket can also be used, offering a robust beefy taste. For a truly authentic experience, some chefs incorporate a mix of beef and pork, with the latter adding depth to the overall flavor profile.
Game meats like venison occasionally make an appearance in regional variations, providing a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Spices and Seasonings
The spice blend is crucial for achieving authentic Texas chili flavor. Chili powder forms the base, typically a mix of ground dried chilies, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder.
Key spices include:
- Cumin
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Whole dried chilies are often used alongside or instead of chili powder. Popular varieties include ancho, guajillo, and cascabel peppers, each contributing distinct flavors and heat levels.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning. Some recipes incorporate a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder or brewed coffee to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Fresh ingredients like minced garlic and diced onions complement the dried spices, enhancing the overall taste and aroma of the chili.
Understanding Regional Variations
Texas-style chili has evolved as it spread beyond the Lone Star State, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. This evolution has led to unique interpretations in different regions, including Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Adaptations
Los Angeles chefs have put their own spin on Texas-style chili, incorporating local flavors and ingredients. Some restaurants add avocado or cilantro as toppings, reflecting California’s agricultural bounty. Others experiment with plant-based meat alternatives to cater to the city’s health-conscious diners.
Fusion elements are common, with some eateries blending Mexican or Korean flavors into their chili recipes. This creates unique taste profiles that set LA’s Texas-style chili apart from its Texan counterparts.
Traditional vs. Modern Interpretations
Traditional Texas-style chili in Los Angeles stays true to its roots, focusing on beef and a rich blend of spices. These versions often omit beans and tomatoes, adhering to the “bowl of red” concept popularized in Texas.
Modern interpretations, however, push boundaries. Some chefs incorporate unconventional ingredients like chocolate or coffee to add depth. Others experiment with different meat cuts or cooking techniques, such as smoking the meat before adding it to the chili.
Many LA restaurants offer both traditional and modern versions, allowing diners to choose between authentic Texas flavors and innovative local twists.