San Antonio's Best Chili [Updated 2025]

From spicy to savory, I've tasted a variety of chilis throughout the city, and let me tell you, San Antonio does not disappoint.

After sampling 15 different chilis from a range of local favorites and hidden gems, I’ve uncovered the standout flavors that define our vibrant culinary scene.

Whether you're a lifelong chili enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s a bowl of deliciousness waiting for you.

Join me as we explore the rich flavors and unique twists that make San Antonio's chili offerings truly exceptional!

Tycoon Flats

Highlights
Over-the-top gourmet burgers
Addicting fried pickles
Friendly and attentive staff
Great outdoor and indoor dining
Perfect birthday spot

Tycoon Flats is not merely a place for delicious chili; it's a culinary adventure that begins the moment you step through the door. I was instantly enveloped in a lively atmosphere, enhanced by the friendly and attentive staff, who seemed genuinely eager to share their passion for good food. Now, let's talk about the chili: it's a vivid concoction that dances on your palate, with rich, bold flavors that can only be described as exquisite.

Once I could tear myself away from the chili’s delightful embrace, I indulged in their addicting fried pickles. Seriously, these crispy wonders are a perfect companion to the main event. The ambiance, with its great indoor and outdoor dining options, made for a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience.

As I savored each delicious bite, I couldn't help but imagine Tycoon Flats as the ideal spot for celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a fun night out with friends. The combination of mouthwatering chili and an atmosphere filled with laughter truly makes Tycoon Flats a standout. If you're searching for the best chili in San Antonio, do yourself a favor and pay this gem a visit!

You might also want to check out the best chili cheese fries in San Antonio.

Chester's Hamburgers

Highlights
Juicy and delicious burgers
Great malt shakes available
Fresh cut fries
Long-standing reputation
Excellent onion rings

When I sauntered into Chester's Hamburgers, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of sizzling patties and the comforting buzz of friendly chatter. Known for their juicy and delicious burgers, this local gem is often overlooked for its chili, but let me tell you, it's a delightful surprise!

The chili they serve is rich and hearty, a perfect companion to their crispy, fresh-cut fries. Each spoonful was a flavor explosion—robust and perfectly seasoned, you could taste the love that went into making it. Just when I thought things couldn't get better, I sampled their excellent onion rings, which provided a delightful crunch that cut through the chili's warmth.

They also offer great malt shakes, perfect for cooling down after a spicy bite. With a long-standing reputation for excellence, Chester's is a welcoming escape filled with nostalgia, where patrons can savor food that feels like it’s straight out of a classic diner.

All in all, grabbing a bowl of chili at Chester's is a must for any chili aficionado visiting San Antonio. Don’t just take my word for it—allow yourself to indulge in this delightful experience!

You might also want to check out the best bbq in San Antonio.

Fattboy Burgers & Dogs

Highlights
Fresh and flavorful burger
Juicy meat with every bite
Nicely toasted buns
Delicious chicken burger and fried pickles
Friendly staff

Let me start by saying, it was a delightful visit to Fattboy Burgers & Dogs. This cozy little joint offers an array of mouthwatering dishes, and of course, chili is one of them.

The chili at Fattboy Burgers & Dogs is truly phenomenal. It's packed with flavor, with just the right amount of spiciness to leave a pleasant tingle on your taste buds. The chunks of meat are tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful. I couldn't help but marvel at how they managed to strike the perfect balance of flavors.

But Fattboy Burgers & Dogs isn't only about chili. Their burgers are an absolute triumph. I chose their classic burger, and boy, was it fresh and flavorful. The patty was perfectly cooked, and the toppings were meticulously placed to create a burger masterpiece. The buns were nicely toasted, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to the ensemble. I was also impressed by their chicken burger, and their fried pickles were a delightful surprise.

Beyond the scrumptious fare, the staff at Fattboy Burgers & Dogs were incredibly friendly and attentive. They made me feel welcome from the moment I stepped through the door.

If you're on the hunt for the best chili in San Antonio, I implore you to make a stop at Fattboy Burgers & Dogs. It's a hidden gem that guarantees a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Antonio.

Pete's Tako House

Highlights
Amazing homemade food
Friendly and courteous staff
Plentiful and delicious street tacos
Cozy and laid-back atmosphere
High ratings for food, service, and atmosphere

Walking into Pete's Tako House, I was immediately drawn to the cozy and laid-back atmosphere. The friendly and courteous staff made me feel right at home. As a chili enthusiast, I was more than thrilled to discover that they also serve amazing homemade chili.

First on the menu were their street tacos, which were plentiful and packed with flavor. Each bite was a burst of authentic Mexican taste, leaving me craving more. But let's not forget the star of the show - their chili. It was simply outstanding. The rich and hearty flavors of the chili had just the right amount of spice to wake up my taste buds without overpowering them. And the texture was spot on - thick and satisfying.

I must commend Pete's Tako House on the high ratings they've received, and it's no surprise. The food, service, and atmosphere were all exceptional. It's clear that they take pride in their homemade creations, and it shows in every bite.

For anyone searching for the best chili in San Antonio, Pete's Tako House is a must-visit. Whether you're craving spicy street tacos or a bowl of mouthwatering chili, this place has it all. So, gather your friends and head over to Pete's Tako House for an authentic and delightful experience that will leave you craving more.

You might also want to check out the best burgers in San Antonio.

Cheesy Jane's

Highlights
Delicious food
Retro diner atmosphere
Tasty tacos
Plenty of parking

Walking into Cheesy Jane's, I was immediately enchanted by its retro diner atmosphere. The walls were adorned with vintage posters, giving the place a nostalgic feel. I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped back in time to a beloved diner from my childhood.

Now, onto the chili itself. Let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion! The aroma of the simmering pot filled the air, enticing my taste buds. I couldn't resist taking a spoonful of the cheese-topped goodness. It was absolutely delightful. The chili was rich and hearty, with a perfect balance of spices. Each bite was a burst of Tex-Mex heaven!

But Cheesy Jane's doesn't stop at just chili. They also serve up some mouthwatering tacos. The fillings were generous and flavorful, and the tortillas were warm and soft. Whether you're a fan of traditional beef tacos or prefer something more adventurous like their shrimp or avocado tacos, Cheesy Jane's has got you covered.

One thing I appreciated about Cheesy Jane's was the ample parking. It's always a plus when you don't have to worry about finding a spot and can focus on satisfying your chili cravings.

In summary, Cheesy Jane's is a must-visit for any chili enthusiast in San Antonio. The delicious food, retro atmosphere, tasty tacos, and convenient parking make it a standout choice in the search for the best chili in the city. Don't miss out on this gem!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in San Antonio.

Chili's Grill & Bar

Highlights
Comfy atmosphere
Fast service
Tasty food
Large bar with TVs
Clean and healthier options

Let me start off by saying that Chili's Grill & Bar provides a warm and comfy atmosphere, the kind of place that makes you feel relaxed and ready to dig into a delicious bowl of chili. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a smile and seated promptly by the friendly staff.

One aspect that really impressed me was the fast service. It seemed like my chili arrived at my table in a flash, which is always a plus, especially when you're craving that spicy goodness. Speaking of which, the chili itself was absolutely tasty. The flavors were well-balanced, with just the right amount of heat to awaken my taste buds, making each spoonful a delight.

If you're a sports fan, you'll also appreciate the large bar with TVs. It's the perfect spot to catch a game while enjoying your chili. Not to mention, the bar offers an impressive selection of beverages to quench your thirst.

One thing that stood out at Chili's Grill & Bar was their commitment to offering clean and healthier options. It's refreshing to know that even in a place known for indulgent dishes, there are still choices to cater to a range of dietary preferences.

In conclusion, Chili's Grill & Bar in San Antonio delivers on its promise of serving up a fantastic bowl of chili. With its comfortable atmosphere, fast service, tasty food, large bar with TVs, and commitment to clean and healthier options, it's definitely a top contender for the best chili in San Antonio.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in New Braunfels.

Wrigleyville Grill

Highlights
Outstanding food
Authentic Chicago taste
Great service
Chicago atmosphere
Plenty of parking

First and foremost, the chili at Wrigleyville Grill is nothing short of outstanding. It has a robust and fiery flavor that is sure to satisfy any chili enthusiast. The authenticity of its Chicago taste is truly impressive, transporting me to the Windy City with every spoonful.

Aside from the chili, the overall experience at Wrigleyville Grill was a delight. The service was top-notch and the staff went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was enjoyable. The friendly and attentive waitstaff truly enhanced the dining experience and made me feel like a cherished guest.

Wrigleyville Grill also boasts a Chicago atmosphere that captures the lively spirit of the famous neighborhood it is named after. From the sports memorabilia adorning the walls to the lively chatter of patrons, the ambiance added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal.

When it comes to convenience, Wrigleyville Grill has it covered. The ample parking available on-site was a pleasant surprise, making my visit hassle-free and stress-free.

In conclusion, Wrigleyville Grill is a must-visit for chili lovers in San Antonio. With its outstanding food, authentic Chicago taste, great service, Chicago atmosphere, and plenty of parking, it ticks all the right boxes. Take a trip to Wrigleyville Grill, and I guarantee you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Antonio.

The Longhorn Cafe

Highlights
Great tasting food
Friendly staff
Large portion sizes
Wide variety of menu options

As soon as I walked into The Longhorn Cafe, I could tell that I was in for a treat. The aroma of their great tasting food filled the air, making my mouth water with anticipation. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home.

I decided to go for their chili, after all, that's what I was there for. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The chili had the perfect balance of flavors, with just the right amount of spice. Each bite was a journey of deliciousness, leaving me wanting more.

What impressed me even more was the portion size. The bowl of chili was hearty and filled with meat and beans that were cooked to perfection. It was enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

The Longhorn Cafe truly embodies the spirit of Texan cuisine, as their menu offers a wide variety of options. From juicy burgers to mouthwatering BBQ, there is something to please every palate.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best chili in San Antonio, The Longhorn Cafe is definitely a top contender. Their great tasting chili, friendly staff, large portion sizes, and wide variety of menu options make it a must-visit for chili enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in San Antonio.

You might also want to check out the best tex mex in San Antonio.

Armadillos Texas Style Burgers

Highlights
Fresh and hot food
Large portion sizes
Great taste of burgers
Quick and efficient service
Good prices

Let me start by saying that Armadillos Texas Style Burgers offers an extraordinary dining experience. As soon as I walked in, the enticing aroma of freshly cooked chili filled the air, immediately stimulating my taste buds. I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my eye was the generous portion sizes. I ordered a bowl of their chili, and let me tell you, it was a hearty serving that left me completely satisfied. Each spoonful revealed a burst of flavors, with spices dancing on my palate. The rich, savory goodness of the chili complemented the tender beef and beans perfectly.

But it wasn't just the chili that impressed me. The burgers at Armadillos Texas Style Burgers were a delight as well. Juicy and succulent, they were cooked to perfection and packed with flavor. It was evident that only the freshest ingredients were used.

The service at Armadillos Texas Style Burgers was equally impressive. The staff was quick and efficient, attending to my needs promptly and with a friendly smile. I appreciated their attention to detail and their genuine passion for providing a memorable dining experience.

And the best part? Everything was offered at good prices, ensuring that you get exceptional value for your money.

In conclusion, Armadillos Texas Style Burgers is a hidden gem in the San Antonio chili scene. With their fresh and hot food, large portion sizes, great taste of burgers, quick and efficient service, and good prices, they truly stand out. If you're looking for a bowl of mouthwatering chili, Armadillos Texas Style Burgers is the place to go.

You might also want to check out the best steak in San Antonio.

Candy's Old Fashion Burgers

Highlights
Friendly service
Unique atmosphere
Generous portions
Delicious burgers
Quick service

Walking into Candy's Old Fashion Burgers, I couldn't help but notice the unique atmosphere that immediately transported me back in time. The vintage decor, complete with neon signs and checkered floors, made me feel like I was stepping into a 1950s diner.

The friendly service further added to the charm of this delightful establishment. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were more than happy to answer my questions about their famous chili. It was evident that they took pride in their restaurant and were dedicated to providing an outstanding dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the chili. Candy's Old Fashion Burgers certainly didn't disappoint in this department. The chili was expertly seasoned with a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Every spoonful was a delightful explosion of spices that danced on my taste buds. The chili packed just the right amount of punch without overwhelming the other ingredients.

What sets Candy's chili apart from the others is not just the fantastic flavors, but also the generous portions they serve. I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the bowl they served it in. It was clear that they didn't hold back when it came to dishing out their delicious chili.

In addition to the chili, I also had to try their delicious burgers. Juicy, perfectly cooked patties nestled between soft buns, accompanied by fresh toppings, made for a truly satisfying meal.

Another noteworthy aspect was the quick service. Despite being a popular spot, my order arrived promptly, allowing me to enjoy my chili without any unnecessary waiting.

If you're on the hunt for the best chili in San Antonio, look no further than Candy's Old Fashion Burgers. With their friendly service, unique atmosphere, delicious burgers, and, of course, their mouthwatering chili, it's a stop you won't want to miss.

You might also want to check out the best breakfast tacos in San Antonio.

Chris Madrid's

Oh boy, oh boy! Let me tell you about my adventure at Chris Madrid's in San Antonio. This place is a chili lover's dream come true! The friendly staff, the cozy atmosphere, and let's not forget about their out-of-this-world chili. It's thick, hearty, and packed with a kick of flavor that will make your taste buds dance a salsa. Trust me, this place is a must-visit for all chili enthusiasts in San Antonio!

You might also want to check out the best tamales in San Antonio.

Burgerteca

Burgerteca in San Antonio is a playful yet professional spot that knows how to serve up a mean chili. With their unique blend of Mexican flavors infused into their chili, every bite leaves you wanting more. The perfect balance of bold and spicy flavors will leave your taste buds dancing. Don't miss out on their delicious chili bowl, a true winner in my book!

Orderup

I have to say, Orderup really spiced things up! Their chili was absolutely amazing, delivering a flavor explosion that left me wanting more. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat, rich spices, and just the right amount of heat made this bowl of chili a true winner. If you're in San Antonio and looking for some top-notch chili, don't miss out on Orderup!

Chunky's Burgers

Chunky's Burgers in San Antonio is a true hidden gem when it comes to chili. Their bold and flavorful chili has just the right amount of heat and a mouthwatering combination of spices. The meat is tender and juicy, and the beans are perfectly cooked. Don't miss out on trying this chili sensation!

Schilo's German-Texan Restaurant

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the delightful Schilo's German-Texan Restaurant in San Antonio. Their chili was simply sensational. The unique blend of German and Texan flavors transported my taste buds to a whole new level of culinary bliss. Schilo's definitely deserves a spot on the list of San Antonio's best chilis!