People Drive From All Over Ohio To Eat At This Tiny But Legendary Chili Parlor
By Sarah McCosham|Published August 24, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Cincinnati chili isn’t just every Ohioan’s favorite way to warm up on a cold day in the Buckeye State; it’s its very own food group! And while you can find this delicacy all across Ohio, nothing holds a candle to authentic Cincinnati chili, namely, Camp Washington Chili. No offense to Skyline and Gold Star or other local favorites like Blue Ash Chili and Empress, but the chili from Camp Washington Chili is in a league of its own, and people drive from all over Ohio to eat at this legendary chili parlor.
What makes Cincinnati chili, Cincinnati chili? Because this is not your typical stew of beans and meat. Far from it.
Cincinnati chili (also called "Cincinnati-style" chili) is a Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce used as a topping for spaghetti or hot dogs. It's spicy and a bit sweet, and sure to make your taste buds dance with delight.
With classic red, white, and black decor and nostalgic swag adorning its walls, this 24-hour institution opened in 1940, and has been open 24/6 ever since. (They are closed Sundays.)
You can also order Camp Washington Chili any way you'd like it, from plain chili and chili with beans to a classic 3-way (chili, spaghetti, and cheese) or 5-way (chili, spaghetti, onions, beans, and cheese). Talk about the works!
Just bring your appetite.. you're going to need it!
Where’s your favorite place to grab a bowl of Cincinnati chili? The spicy-sweet, piping-hot chili goodness from Camp Washington Chili is legendary, and a must for all Ohio foodies!
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