Est. 1976 · Austin, Texas

Welcome to the
Texas Chili Parlor

Legendary hole-in-the-wall Tex-Mex chili joint
one block from the State Capitol.

See the Menu Our Story
As Seen In
Southern Living Austin Chronicle Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Travel Channel Austin American-Statesman Food Paradise
50+
Years Open
6
Kinds of Chili
1
State Dish
0
Bullshit

Home of Texas Red Chili

One Hell Of A History

We opened our doors in 1976, one year before chili became the official state dish of Texas. Our spot at 1409 Lavaca Street — a stone's throw from the Capitol — has drawn in lawmakers, musicians, journalists, and colorful characters ever since.

Guy Clark was a regular. Quentin Tarantino name-dropped us. We outlasted trends, fads, and every fancy restaurant that's come and gone on this block.

Read Our Story
"One cannot be a true son or daughter of this state without having his taste buds tingle at the thought of the treat that is real, honest-to-goodness, pure, unadulterated Texas chili."
— Texas House Concurrent Resolution No. 18, 1977
"Pull up a chair.
Order a bowl.
Raise some hell."

House Specialties

XXX Chili

Our most notorious bowl. Incendiary by design — so hot it comes with a required waiver. Six kinds of chili on the menu, and this one earns its reputation every single time it leaves the kitchen.

Waiver Required

Mad Dog Margarita

Born in the 1970s by regulars — including Guy Clark. Made with mezcal instead of tequila for a bolder, more complex flavor and an earthy fire that's all Texas. No foo-foo ingredients allowed.

House Original

Word on the Street

Praise, Press & Potshots

★★★★★

"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

★★★★★

"Austin's original and still the best. Nothing fancy, just honest Texas food done right. Every time."

— A Regular

Come Find Us

No Draught. No Bullshit. No Fries.

Open daily from 11am to 10pm. First come, first served. No reservations.

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