Chili John’s

The Details:

2018 W Burbank Blvd
Burbank, CA 91506-1319
Phone: (818) 846-3611
Mon-Fri 11am-7pm
Sat 11am-4pm
(Closed during the Summertime: the last Saturday in June until Labor Day)

The Los Angeles Foodie Rating:

3 out of 5

The Summary:

Chili John’s is a small, neighborhood lunch spot that dates back to the 1940s. It claims to be the oldest restaurant in Pasadena, and it certainly looks that way, though it has been remarkably well maintained. If you show up during the lunch hour, be prepared to wait for a seat, as this chili joint attracts droves of TV and film production crews from the area. If you are impatient, they will wrap up your order to go.

The Place:

As their menu states, Chili John’s is “Famous for Being Closed.” Be sure to call ahead to make sure the burners are on, and note that the restaurant is closed for nearly the entire Summer. A cool old horseshoe shaped counter provides the seating at this small, intimate lunch spot. The restaurant dates back to 1946, and the structure itself is at home among some of the other historic buildings along Burbank Boulevard. The counter here is rimmed by bolted orange diner stools, and one wall is covered by a huge mural of a California landscape. Brick-a-brack is hung about, and when the weather is warm, a fan that looks at least as old as the restaurant whirs above the kitchen. Even if you’re not a chili type of person, stop by Chili John’s and check the place out. It tells a small portion of the visual story of Los Angeles.

The Food:

Here’s the deal: It’s greasy. So if that puts you off, steer clear. In the middle of the u-shaped counter, the 3 styles of chili (beef, chicken and vegetarian) bubble away in stainless steel pots. The star dish is simple Texas Red, which means that the chili is meat simmered in a heavily seasoned and spiced sauce. It is powerful stuff, so you will probably want to consider having your chili served over beans, spaghetti or a bun. You can choose from mild, medium or hot. If you are a total wimp, ask for the “kiddie” version from the child’s menu. Toppings include oyster crackers, cheese and sour cream. There are other menu options, but Chili John’s is obviously all about the chili, so that is what you have to try on your first visit.

The Service:

After reading a preponderance of Internet feedback about Chili John’s, I can see there is a sharp disagreement about the quality of the service. A common sentiment seems to be that upon entering, you might feel like you’re interrupting. Well… yeah. This is a neighborhood, family owned (3 generations) joint. So, chances are, unless you are a regular, you’re probably going to be a little out of place at first. However, both people who helped me were exceptionally accommodating. Before I was served, I was asked if I had even eaten there before. When I said no, I was served a sample of each type of chili. They even explained to me why carafes of vinegar are available; it supposedly mellows out the heat of the spices. After tasting their signature dish, I was doted upon and asked, “Well, what do you think?” These folks are proud of their chili.