Our Story

One Hell Of A History

Austin's original chili joint — and still the only one that matters.

Est. 1976

Where It All Started

The Texas Chili Parlor opened in 1976 at 1409 Lavaca Street — one block from the Texas State Capitol. The timing was fortuitous: one year after we opened, chili was declared the official state dish of Texas. We like to think we had something to do with that.

From the jump, the Parlor attracted a motley crowd. Lawmakers leaving session, musicians between sets, journalists chasing stories, and characters of every stripe found their way through our door. It was never fancy. It was never supposed to be.

Guy Clark was a regular. Quentin Tarantino filmed Death Proof here. Bourdain had us on his Texas Bucket List. Southern Living, the Austin Chronicle, the Travel Channel, and Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives all came calling. We said yes to the cameras and no to the fries — every single time.

Interior of the Texas Chili Parlor, showing the bar and vintage atmosphere

Outside the Parlor, 1409 Lavaca St

"One cannot be a true son or daughter of this state without having his taste buds tingle at the thought of real, honest-to-goodness, pure, unadulterated Texas chili."

Texas House Concurrent Resolution No. 18, 1977

Scott 'Zoob' Zublin, longtime owner of the Texas Chili Parlor

The Man Behind the Bowl

Scott "Zoob" Zublin

In 2002, Scott "Zoob" Zublin took over a Texas Chili Parlor teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. What he saved wasn't just a restaurant — it was a piece of Austin's soul.

Zoob ran the Parlor the way it had always been run: with grit, warmth, and zero pretense. He memorized regulars' names and their orders. He shared the stories behind the recipes. He refused to add fries to the menu no matter how many times he was asked.

After two decades behind the counter, Zoob passed away in 2025. His family now carries the torch — same chili, same margaritas, same no-bullshit Texas hospitality he spent twenty years protecting.

"The chili is the same. The margs hit the same. The spirit doesn't change."
— The Zublin Family

Inside the Parlor

Inside the Texas Chili Parlor
The bar at Texas Chili Parlor
Dining room interior
Texas Chili Parlor atmosphere

Before You Go

The House Rules

We've kept it simple since 1976.

Rule I

No Checks

Rule II

No Foo-Foo Drinks

Rule III

No Talking to Imaginary People

Rule IV

No Lone Star

Rule V

No Draft

Rule VI

No Fries

Good Questions

Frequently Asked

We serve Texas Red Chili — our original bean-free recipe — ranging from mild to our infamous XXX, plus five chili options with beans. We also have vegetarian options available.

We're open every day from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. We're closed on Christmas and the 4th of July. The kitchen closes at 9 on Sundays.

Nope. First come, first served — same as it's always been. Pull up a chair if there's one open, or grab a spot at the bar. It's worth the wait.

We have a full bar. No draught beer — that's always been our way. We do beer by the bottle and can, and our cocktail program is anchored by the legendary Mad Dog Margarita (mezcal, not tequila). No foo-foo drinks. Don't ask.

Burgers, enchiladas, gumbo, and rotating daily specials. The chili is the star, but everything coming out of the kitchen is solid. Check the full menu for current offerings.

Yes — we've got vegetarian options on the menu. Ask your server for what's available today.

From the Regulars

What People Say

★★★★★

"This is a must see and eat place in Austin. The food and service were excellent."

— Silas Lewis

★★★★★

"Delicious food at a reasonable price, in a great, no-nonsense atmosphere."

— Duffy Tweedy

★★★★★

"Old school as it gets! Chili, burgers and enchiladas, including the daily specials are pretty damn good. Also the gumbo! It's a vibe!"

— Julie Alexander

★★★★★

""My mouth is on fire and it's glorious. This place is the definition of legendary local haunt." Leo King "Delicious food at a reasonable price, in a great, no-nonsense atmosphere." Duffy Tweedy "Never disappoints! Steak is always delicious and perfectly cooked." Zac Pagett "What a great experience, awesome service and kick ass no bean with huge chunks of meat chili.""

— Markland Barter

Come On In

Ready for a Bowl?

1409 Lavaca St, Austin TX 78701 · Open daily 11am–10pm.

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