Chili John&#x27;s of CA

https://onthegrid.city/los-angeles/burbank/chili-johns

On the Grid : Chili John's

"Sit down at this delightfully retro diner for some of the best chili in probably all of California. Chili John's is the oldest restaurant in Burbank, opening with its u-shaped counter in 1946 at the height of Burbank's top secret aviation era. Early chili patrons were the first aerospace engineers working for Lockheed Martin, located nearby at the time. For the past 20 years, the Loguercio family has owned Chili John’s. Debbie and her son Anthony are two of the nicest people you may meet in Burbank. Have your chili over spaghetti, mild or flaming hot and don't forget the fixin's or pineapple pie for dessert." - Jennifer Beatty

https://la.eater.com/2025/3/24/24393013/ribtown-bbq-closed-south-la-2025

@eater

Ribtown, One of the Best Barbecue Trailers in South LA, Is Closed - Eater LA

"A historic Burbank restaurant known for its chili based on a 130-year-old recipe, facing risk of closure due to reduced sales." - Matthew Kang

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/best-restaurants-burbank

The 18 Best Restaurants In Burbank

"Despite all the studios and chains out here, Burbank is still a small town filled with lovable and strange little restaurants. One of those places is Chili John’s. This diner on Burbank Blvd. has a mountain mural on the walls, a chatty crowd of people who live nearby, and pretty fantastic Texas-style chili. Of the different chili options on the menu, we like the spiciest version of the original beef that’s served on top of rice and beans with plenty of sour cream and a drizzle of apple cider vinegar on top. Save room for lemon cream pie for dessert." - brant cox

View Postcard for Chili John's

"Chili John's, Burbank. Sit down at this delightfully retro diner for some of the best chili in probably all of California. Chili John's is the oldest restaurant in Burbank, opening with its u-shaped counter in 1946 at the height of Burbank's top secret aviation era. Early chili patrons were the first aerospace engineers working for Lockheed Martin, located nearby at the time. For the past 20 years, the Loguercio family has owned Chili John’s. Debbie and her son Anthony are two of the nicest people you may meet in Burbank. Have your chili over spaghetti, mild or flaming hot and don't forget the fixin's or pineapple pie for dessert."

Los Angeles

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/reviews/chili-johns

Chili John’s Review - Burbank - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"You could easily pretend you’re in Montana at Chili John’s, where the interior is covered in murals of mountains. But you’re in Burbank, sitting at a counter, staring down vats of chili and trying to figure out which one you’re going to eat. First-timers should go for the original beef on rice and beans, hot, with all the fixings (including oyster crackers and a drizzle of apple cider vinegar.) It’s good chili, but you’re really at Chili John’s to chat up whoever is inside, like the couple having lunch who’ll tell you to be brave and get the hot-but-manageable spice level, a guy behind the counter talking about his recent trip to Louisiana, and the teenaged server who will nod seriously when you ask if you should get the lemon cream pie." - Jess Basser Sanders

Gabriel Olsen

Google

Best chili on the planet, made with beef suet so it’s nice and rich. The spicy chili is actually spicy so if you can’t handle a bit of heat, downgrade to the regular. Chili powder is available on the counter and there is a secret hot sauce drawer that is stuffed to the brim with amazing custom hot sauces. The atmosphere is in incredible, like stepping back into the 1940s. Not a hipsters in sight. This is an old timey place, no air conditioning, enjoy the real deal and don’t be a sissy.

Michele Leocadio

Google

Chili John’s has been serving their legendary chili since 1946 in the heart of Burbank!! It still has a bit of vintage charm and it’s a trip down memory lane. They’re down the street from major Hollywood studios and they’ve got Old-school diner vibes!! With a U-shape dining counter, it’s easy to make friends with those seating next to you. They make their chili in house; simmering for 20 hours. It’s the same chili recipe since the 1800s. You can get it with a burger, on a hotdog or in a bowl of spaghetti, rice or beans. Their Chili Cheese Fries is the perfect comfort food!! You can customize your chili: original beef, chicken, turkey or vegetarian 12oz $9.50 16oz $13.50 Cheese and sour cream is an additional $1.25. They have clean ingredients, no artificial preservatives or coloring and use no seed oils!! Lunch Specials Available from 11-3 Chili Dog Lunch Special Chili Dog with mexican soda & a bag of chips $13.95 Chili Spaghetti Lunch Special Regular bowl of chili spaghetti with a mexican soda & a bag of chips $13.95 House made Original Lemon Ice Box or Pineapple Cream pie with graham cracker crust and topped with fresh made whipped cream.

Dean Lenz

Google

First time visit. A small quaint diner with counter seating and single table near the door. Greeted as I entered with a smile and hello. I had a combo, “Sloppy John’s” with the spicy beef chili and man did that hit the spot. No disappointment here! Generous portion of mouthwatering chili atop two nicely toasted hamburger buns which had shredded cheese on them (before the chili was topped on) which made it nice because being wedged between the bun and the hot chili on top, the cheese melted much more quickly and incorporated itself into the overall flavourful meal. Fries were nice and crispy shoestring fries with a light dose of seasoning and the iced tea was unsweetened and very refreshing. Staff were engaging and pleasant. Quality food and service at a very reasonable price. I quite enjoyed this meal and look forward to returning.

Vee Dinh

Google

Let's come to Burbank's oldest continuously operating restaurant for their chili recipe. I had: 1. Chicken tenders and fries 2. Chili spaghetti and beans with oyster crackers - it's sooo spicy! 3. Chili hot dog 4. Soda 5. Lemon pie

A M

Google

I had been told of this place being in trouble of closing due to a loss of customers from the local area. It has some historical significance, as the oldest restaurant in Burbank, has been used as a movie or TV location and their Chili recipe has been around since the 1880s. Interesting small place with a horseshoe seating area with fixed, raised stools and a hot center island used for food serving. (A small table was pushed to the very front, with 2 or 3 chairs.) Service was friendly, where I was greeted by 3 or 4 employees as they exited the hanging cloth partition leading to the kitchen. After a chance to view the menu, being my first time here, I ordered the lunch special: hot (spicy) Beef Chili on Spaghetti with cheese and onions, a bag of Lay's chips and a bottle of cane sugar Dr Pepper. After many minutes of waiting after taking my order, the server assembled my order from the center island. Chili was a fine grind with a little less kick than I expected for a hot chili, no beans but there are hot sauces available... but you have to ask. I found this out AFTER I'd finished my meal. Of course, I had to have a slice of their ice box line pie... which I needed to wait for as they were making the whipped creme. Super Fresh! Well, O spent a pleasant hour and a half at this iconic place in Burbank, tried their Chili, ate their pie and drank their bottle of cane sugar Dr. Pepper. I sat on their well worn stool and was the first and only customer for maybe 40 minutes; another 2 people sat at the table and 1 person came in as I was going out the door. This probably will be my last visit here ... abd I wish them luck.

Sean Park

Google

If you can handle some spiciness, I would order the spicy chili, its got some kick to it, but definitely doable. The service here is very welcoming, and chill vibe. I think they are also working on the bar next door. First time coming here and compared to other chili places, it's definitely up there.

Gina Vanatter

Google

Vintage fun. My first time there. Any version of chili you could ever want. Med is still very hot. Tasty but hot. I will try chicken chili and veggie chili next. (FYI there was no air conditioning when I was there on a spring afternoon) It opened in 1940 they said. You can order a Mason jar full to go. Cool vintage vibe. I will be back.

Kamakazi Kriss

Google

Great food, hole in the wall in Burbank. Have driven by it and never noticed it. The chili is great... & btw ..hot really means hot! Seats look like they've been through the Eaton Fire & really need replaced. But if you can get past all this, the chili really is good & filling

Jeremy E.

Yelp

What an amazing find with BIG soul! Randomly stumbled upon this place and decided to give it a whirl and I was NOT disappointed by any means. Ordered the burger from the very hospitable staff and while waiting for the food to be made, listened to very wonderful tunes that just fit the moment and energy of the day so perfectly for me that I felt like I was a character in a big budget feature film and the whole thing was for me; got a little teensy weensy teary eyed about just how perfect it really was. Food came out in less than 10 mins and it was super tasty. Heard from other customers that I should really try the chili which makes a lot of sense given the name so I will definitely be a returning customer. Thanks y'all!

Kelvin C.

Yelp

Best chili dog of all time award! This was the best all around chili dog. All of the ingredients just goes together so well, and everything about it was mouth watering. The bun was buttery, crispy and soft. A good bun is a must. The dog was snappy and flavor packed. The cheese was perfectly gooey. Finally, the chili was one of the best. It was beefy, thick, and delicious. This spot is so nostalgic, and has a long history. Sitting at the counter just makes me feel like a kid again. Love the owner, he was friendly and has a passion for great food.

Bianka G.

Yelp

Got a taste of what Chili John's has to offer at a street festival. They were only offering hot dogs/chili dogs. Went with one Chili dog with cheese and raw onions and another chili dog with cheese and mustard. The chili is very meaty and had a good flavor to it. I would like to add a little more spice to it but that's probably something I can do if actually dining at their restaurant. I thought their buns were really soft and not too dense. Not that typical dry bun. So once it starts soaking up that meaty chili that bun gets even better. I like what I had so I need to stop by and get the true Chili John's experience!

Charlene P.

Yelp

I've been there many times and if you want true chili this is the place to be. Yes, the chili may seem greasy but that's how it's always been made. Anything with made with beef is going to be a little greasy, but it's flavorful. The lemon icebox pie is absolutely delicious. If you want old school feel with a diner feel, this is the place to be

Jaime R.

Yelp

Chili John's in Burbank isn't quite Ben's Chili Bowl, but when you're craving chili spaghetti on the way to the airport, it really hits the spot. The diner ambiance is charming, the staff is friendly and attentive, and the food comes out fast. Definitely worth a try if you're in the area!

Melissa S.

Yelp

Wow!!! Thought we were going to a historic chili hotdog restaurant. It was so grease, everything just was soaked in grease. Chili Dogs, chili French fries, chili spaghetti. Service wasn't great she forgot two sides of chili spaghetti. Would love to know if the chili is always so brown and full of grease????

Ashley R.

Yelp

The service is awful. The spaghetti is over cooked. The pie was ok. I've had better chili.

Trevor T.

Yelp

Chili John's is like going back into the past. You feel like Marty McFly sitting at the counter. The staff is SO NiCE and friendly. They let us sample multiple chili flavors and provided excellent suggestions. I tried chili on spaghetti which sounds weird, but was actually delicious. Will try rice/beans with chili next time. You should definitely get a bottle of Dr. Pepper in the glass. Wow! It was the best Dr. Pepper I ever had.

Tigran N.

Yelp

Drove by this spot today and decided to give it a try. The ambiance made me feel at home. I LOVED the layout of the place, kinda like old school diner vibes. The customer service was great and they were very nice. Food came out fast and tasted delicious. I ended up getting 2 hotdogs but a few customers and staff told me they are known for their chilis hence the name (silly me ) I definitely plan on going back to try the chili bowls. If you're in the area and want to enjoy delicious food AND support a staple of the community, this is the place!!

Eddie V.

Yelp

When In Burbank, must live a little must have Chile John's. Mmm Chile Spaghetti, top it with a Chili cheese Dog. Now I've lived

Joshua S.

Yelp

Get yours now! This place is awesome and a piece of Burbank History. Simple, straightforward, and well executed. The Service is good... (the guy there is always pretty cool). Dad's root beer... yes, please. The ambiance is still original and the way it should be. The counter is just classic. I will be returning! Enjoy!! #jsho

Arlene K.

Yelp

Chili John's diner food with care! Their delicious dogs are nitrate free, bread is spot on, which is a plus for me, they have really good chicken and beef chili, the best bread and butter pickles, fries, rings and bottled sodas. Steve and Claudine give you an informative, kind, soulful, experience. Give them a try!!! They were even referenced in a short film I saw at the DWF Fest! (Mama Bear) *The dogs looked and tasted so good, we forgot to take pics, but here's one on Yelp!

Andrea H.

Yelp

We decided to try this place because I saw an article about historic eateries around LA. They also have a 4 on Yelp. First impression was it has a cute retro feel... as I looked around the place is filthy and super hot inside. It was hard to find a spot to sit because the dishes from previous customers had not been cleared yet. We found a clean spot and ordered a milkshake...I was told it would take about 8 min to make our 2 shakes. The shake mixer has something ( crumbs???) around the base of it. Their chili recipe is supposedly a 100 year old recipe... I decided to try the Chili spaghetti bowl lunch special. My husband got the open faced chili burger. The chili was the worst, unflavorful chili I have ever had. I took a couple bites and saw 1/8th of my bowl was pure grease. I couldn't eat anymore after that. My husband did finish his ( I was surprised). There was self serve peppers on the counter and olive oil... I looked closely at the olive oil and there was something growing inside it ( made me want to ). The gentleman waiting on us was very nice, but really needed to take time cleaning his work space. Worst part was we spent $70 on terrible food.

Carly F.

Yelp

i live down the street and they've always had great service and amazing food! i love the vibe of the place! Highly recommend!!!

Doug F.

Yelp

As always with my reviews I call them like I see them. Maybe it's Burbank, or what, the dogs are good but as little pricey in my eyes. Don't get me wrong, dogs are tasty. When It comes to their chili.. the milder one has a bit more flavor. The spicy chili is not spicy... it might be a little bit more capsaicin forward, but not spicy flavorful. I could probably come up with at least a half dozen ways to make it better, but this is a classic establishment. The service was good for an early Saturday, one young lady and another guy were running the place, very friendly. They were quick with their service. As for the ambiance, casual and low key... a basic greasy spoon location. It's cool to visit once for the novelty and experience. It was good, but the chili didn't impress and I'm a person who loves chili and spicy food.

Joey G.

Yelp

I have been coming to Chili John's about once every few years for most of my 50+ years, but only because my travels don't always bring me to this side of Burbank. I would visit more often if I lived closer. The vibe is original, with the aged mural a dominator in the cozy room with the horseshoe shaped counter. Super friendly staff, and you may run into the owners serving up their 100+ year old chili recipe. A nice choice of burgers, hot dogs or spaghetti topped with the chili that has kept this place known around the region. You can also just get a bowl of straight chili, just pick your heat. Overall it's always a great experience from the chunky chili to the owners stories, this is a fun lunch spot!

Nydia U.

Yelp

Walking into Chili John's, the first thing you'll notice is how smoky it is. There's no air ventilation, no AC, and the whole place feels like a sauna with smoke hanging in the air. I'd read the bad reviews beforehand, and I'm here to confirm that they were absolutely right. I ordered the spaghetti chili, hoping for that classic old-school flavor, but what I got was basically a bowl of oil. The chili had almost no taste. Flavorless and greasy meal. It was so bad it triggered my heartburn. The one positive is that the place has a cool, old-school vibe. If you're into vintage-looking spots in Los Angeles, you might enjoy the atmosphere, but don't come here expecting good food. The service was good (along with the old glass bottled drinks) but even great service can't make up for a meal that was, honestly, not good.

Jodi W.

Yelp

Looking for a DELICIOUS bowl of Chili..."CHILI JOHN'S" is the best place to go! Lunch, dinner, event or workplace Chili John's will take care of you. The staff is friendly along with great service!

Erin E.

Yelp

They may serve the best chili on the planet but we will never know. We went in for my husband's birthday lunch and left after we heard the (owner? Manager?) loudly and repeatedly berating a server from the back. What a sad, pathetic little bully of a man. We see you.

Daniel T.

Yelp

A Burbank institution. But the chili quality is variable. One day it was pretty good. Another day, it was the dregs at the bottom of the barrel, had so much oil and the meat was of dubious quality. I would love to support them if the quality was a bit better and more consistent.

Rick H.

Yelp

Great hot dog with bacon ...Chili fries....and the lemon pie ....and the horse shoe dining area....great place

Michael M.

Yelp

Historic experience. It was cool to be a part of it- Legend has it Walt Disney used to eat here! Nostalgic decor and well decorated. I got the Chili dog with the spicy chili. My son got some amazing chicken tenders too. The assortment of retro sodas was incredible! All the food was so nicely prepared and well seasoned. the waiter (i think his name was Matthew) was also wonderful, welcoming, and personable. We also split a blueberry milkshake- wonderful way to end the meal. We will coming back soon!

Brian C.

Yelp

Why haven't I tried this place before, what a delicious chili cheese burger and fries with chocolate shake! The staff was super friendly and there is plenty of parking on the street or in back. I need to come back for the chili dog and lemon pie!

Juan F.

Yelp

You think you know chili, that is until you come to Chili John's. My best suggestion is to let them know it's your first time there and see where things go. I don't think anything is a bad choice, just depends. Come for the chili, stay for the friendly atmosphere at the counter. I don't think this place has changed one bit since it opened.

Tomes G.

Yelp

Small, old-timey, lunch counter with the BEST chili dog I've ever had. No joke, brioche hot dog bun, I got the ultimate chili dog which is bacon wrapped, with all the fixings. Pickles are CHOPPED and placed on there, a small touch that elevates this dog to a lovely, high level. I got the medium spice level, and it was definitely spicy enough. Because we also got the chili on rice, we opted for regular fries, which were delicious. I don't like ketchup so asked if I could get spicy mayo and it was made ON THE SPOT, and was fantastic (from a basic mayo+sriracha mix). We came towards the very end of the day and it was almost empty, with another customer coming in when we were there, and I gotta say, hidden gem. The chili was so good. High recommend.

Will L.

Yelp

This place is incredible. Great food and very friendly service. It's it's beyond old school, it's historic!

Marc E.

Yelp

I drove by with the family on a Friday night and the place look empty as we looked in the window. I told my kids this is a Burbank staple and we should support small business and try it. I have been here many years ago and it was really good. Upon walking in there was no staff at all or customers. After a few minutes we heard a dog bark near the kitchen area, a guy walks out and his vibe was not welcoming at all. He was a "rocker" type of guy and he did not say hi or how can I help you. He could have asked us if we had any questions on the menu. The guy looked annoyed that we were there I immediately lost my appetite based on his vibe. With nobody else in the restaurant, it felt very uncomfortable. I wanted to walk out, but my wife really wanted to order something so we got it to go. The chili was not bad but the level of unwelcoming behavior made me have a bad taste in my mouth. My daughters were not impressed with his vibe. He should have been happy that he had 4 customers. Maybe the guy (maybe he was the owner) was having a bad day and wasn't in the mood to deal with people and I can forgive him for that. The reality is this was a Friday night. This place should have been packed! This is a Burbank staple. Are they Marketing this place? Maybe run a special where kids can get a free bowl of chili and get people into the place. Or maybe the staff is not great a customer service and thats why its empty on a Friday night @ 6PM. Bottom line, connect with your customers and they will always come back.

John H.

Yelp

As long as it's not summer and too hot, it's hard to do better than CJ's for a delicious, quick lunch. There's a reason its been here since the dawn of time. It's great. Try the chili.

Jeremy B.

Yelp

This place is really a jewel. I sit down, and Tom Waits starts playing on the sound system. There's a ragged old LAPD vehicle painted gray that some Batman fan has adorned with Batman logos and a Wayne Enterprises license plate frame like it's a poor man's Batmobile. The place became packed moments after I'd ordered. I'm not a chili fanatic, but this chili was something new to me, and I loved it. With cheese and onions, it was hard for me to eat and moan in pleasure at the same time without bothering people. The service was great, and I will definitely be driving the thirty odd miles to Burbank again to visit Chili John's.

Ian L.

Yelp

Pretty terrible food, I'm shocked their rating is as high as it is. Food came out hot which was nice, but it wasn't as hot as you'll be in the 1930's style establishment that also doesn't realize air conditioning was invented. Hot dog was unimpressive, chili is bland, but the fries were decent. Save time save money, go to Carneys.

Seppo V.

Yelp

My 2 good friends from Finland puts this their favorite restaurant in 3 week trip to the west coast. I enjoyed the Ultimate Chili Dog, and my friends the Original Beef chili! To top it off with amazing, home made lemon pie with French press coffee!! Wow

Michael S.

Yelp

I didn't want to do this, but Yelp kept giving me notifications that won't go away. (I'm sure you can understand since you're on your phones every time every time a customer comes in.) Here's my review: I came in expecting a heaping cafeteria plate full of spaghetti (with optional beans) spread with a hearty yet gently spiced suet-drenched chili that covers everything.. generously topped with fresh shredded cheese, chopped onions, and plenty of oyster crackers to temper the grease. Just like they did it in the good old days, right? Riiight? Nope. Fuck you. You're getting a standard 12oz cardboard yogurt container with a plastic lid. (We are being environmentally conscious as you know) Oh, did you want cheese or sour cream? That's available in 2oz plastic cups for only $1.25 extra per serving! Ok, here's that simple bowl of chili you were looking for, that will be $13.50. It's failing on the food, it's failing on the nostalgia, it's failing on the service and it's failing on the atmosphere. You know this place was founded in the depression era, right? It's supposed to be a greasy spoon where anyone could get a hearty meal for a reasonable price. I can't knock the chili though, it's still delicious. I can only hope the management gets back to the business' roots on everything else. Highly doubtful, but good luck.

Jonathan M.

Yelp

Great food and better company. Owners were awesome. Ran into a regular who has been coming for 15 years. So many more things I want to try.

Nick O.

Yelp

A longtime favorite, I love stopping by for a great bowl of chili and often will take some home as well. The quality remains the same: always high!!!

John I.

Yelp

I purchased a jar of chili to go and I got chili that comes with a smile. Literally, I'm not kidding. Chili John's is a fine establishment. I don't think I ever had chili that was very fulfilling and the spices with the right kind of kick.

Marc M.

Yelp

Absolutely blown away by the rudeness and attitude of the staff. We loved CJ's, had the app, came in frequently...but they lost our business when their service guy crossed the line. Came in on a slow day, one other two person couple at the counter. Waited...we counted...FIFTEEN MINUTES for the guy to come over. He was too busy chatting with the couple, and then chatting with someone new who came in who appeared to be a regular. We didn't receive an acknowledgement of our presence at all - no "I'll be with you in a minute", no glances, no menus, etc. He heard us come in, this was no secret. We sat dead center in the middle of the counter, party of 3. Stevie Wonder would have seen us. VERY politely, we called him over and asked for help. He looked at me as if I had just yelled at him calling him names or something. He came over and I said "I'm sorry, we've been here 15 minutes and could use some help". He took the napkins and silverware and slammed it on the counter in front of me aggressively, and stared right into my eyes like a psycho killer. I was scared, genuinely, and I don't scare easily. He had the worst attitude I've ever seen and most likely spat in our food. Order arrived incorrectly, but we were too annoyed/intimidated/angry to mention it. Left zero tip for the first time I've ever done in twenty years. This guy looked like a 1990's Sunset Strip reject with dyed black hair, Dr. Marten's, and a Hot Topic shirt from 1995 despite being at least 50 years old. If you walk in and see this guy, leave. Others have left similar reviews on here, leading us to believe that he's a giant liability for Chili John's. He should be fired immediately, he's not cut out for the service industry (or any job off a chain gang). So we won't be going back since I'm not used to a side of aggressiveness and butt kicking with my chili. And dude, I'm really sorry about your bad childhood. Get some help.

Tamara H.

Yelp

The facade is charming if you like vintage hamburger/hot dog joints. I have passed Chili John's on Burbank Blvd. more times than I can count and always said to myself, One day, I'm going to try it. I finally did. I enjoyed the tunes playing, but they were loud (a notch or two) for the square footage. It was hot inside. No a/c. Loved the horseshoe shaped counter. Customer service wasn't overly friendly, but the woman who gave me my to-go order and checked me out was pleasant enough. The chili cheese fries were super greasy. The amount of grease in the container was unsettling, but whatever, it was an order of chili cheese fries, not a salad. The cheese was obliterated during the melting process on the fries. That was disappointing. The chili was a dry style chili. Not wet at all. The ground beef had a lot of chili powder on it. It was spicy, but I like spicy, so it wasn't an issue. These wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea but I didn't dislike them. The classic American burger was good. Cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, mustard and onions. I asked for the ketchup to be left off. I wish the burger had had pickles on it. Personal preference though. The burger patty was cooked fine. The bun was fresh and held up to the size of the patty and the toppings. The lemon icebox pie was my favorite over the pineapple cream pie. I wish the lemon icebox pie had had a slightly, thicker layer of lemon. The pineapple cream pie was more grainy. The whipped cream was separated possibly from pineapple juice. The pineapple layer was mainly a can of crushed pineapple. Both vintage desserts had graham cracker crusts. They have crushed iced for sodas. I got 2 bottles of root beer out of the cooler and asked for ice cups. I was excited when I saw they had crushed ice. I think it is in keeping with this old-fashioned chili diner. Chili John's is definitely staying in their lane and being true to themselves. I will order from them again and try one of their hot dogs and onion rings.

R C.

Yelp

Cozy spot with great chili. Stepping inside feels like a blast from the past, with vintage decor and a warm, nostalgic vibe plus a staff that instantly makes you feel at home. The chili here is truly the star - flavorful, perfectly spiced, and hearty. You can tell it's made with care, and they've nailed the balance between a comforting classic and a little kick. Perfect for a laid-back meal with great food and great atmosphere!

Craig W.

Yelp

Los Angeles is a chili town. It seems weird but it's true. Chili John's is a true throwback. But it's not a fake 50s diner that some interior designer slapped together. It's the real deal: a tiny diner about 70 years old with maybe 30 counter stools and no tables. It's like stepping back in time...but for real. So, yes, they've got a bunch of different hot dogs and burgers for sale and the burgers are outrageously good. But chili is in the name so it better be good. In fact, it better be great. And it is. Get yourself a giant bowl of chili with cheese, onions, sour cream and crackers. They've got spicy chili, if you want it, and it's not nuclear hot but it'll put some serious sweat on your brow. If your stomach can hack it, get yourself some chili cheese fries. They are very generous with the chili. Or get your hot dog or burger with chili. Of course, you need to finish it all off with a slice of lemon pie which they gently push here. Why are you getting pie? Because when you walked in, you stepped back in time so, yes, for sure, you'll have that big bowl of chili followed by some very good and not too sweet, lemon pie. No one heard of cholesterol in 1946. Friendly, fast service. They are popular and can get very busy. Remember, they are very small. Plenty of free street parking all around.

Janet K.

Yelp

We went here because we were always curious about this place driving by and would see Chili John's as a suggested place to eat in Burbank. Food reviewers Anthony Bourdain and Guy Fieri has stopped by and they were fans supposedly. First impression was: "Wow. This place needs Air Conditioning. There seemed to be no windows. We came on a HOT day and soon as you walk in, the place was really stuffy. There was loud rock music which was cool but we were almost about to leave because the temperature in there was way too hot and the music also made us irritated. The place did look a bit run down which is the atmosphere but the Diner chairs were ripped at the cushions, most of them were. And I guess there were other workers because you hear chatter behind the flapping doors to enter the back kitchen which we can't see who is there or how they are preparing the foods by the way. We were helped out and the lady assisting me offered a sample of their quinoa vegetarian chili option and I appreciated that. It was okay but thought to better opt for chili as it seems they are famous for their chili right? We decided to both order Chili Cheese Fries because we like Chili Fries. Be aware that we like Spicy food and the "Medium spice " was definitely not Medium in our opinion. It was also really big and greasy. We regretted ordering and we only ate some forkfuls and just left it alone. If you are a BIG chili fan and are used to eating BIG HEAVY GREASY PORTIONS then you may have no issues with this place. For us, it's a pass. We like eating but definitely not that much.

Brian V.

Yelp

I've wanted to come here for a long time. I love going to the restaurants around LA (Burbank in this case) that have been around a long time. This place is dripping with nostalgia even though I haven't been. I've seen it featured in posts, lists, and food shows. So this past weekend, I just made it a point to drive out and finally try it. The parking lot in the back is tiny but you could easily find nearby street parking. For reference, I came here on a Saturday a little around 6pm. When you walk in , it feels like an old timey place in a very good way. I just walked over and sat down at a u-shaped counter and grabbed a menu. A very friendly woman came by to take my order. I ordered the regular sized (12 oz bowl) original beef chili and got the spaghetti and beans as my base in a frivolous attempt to cut back on some carbs, haha. But I think I've grown to like the bean more as of late. Anyhow, I also ordered onions and cheese for toppings. I told the young lady I was going to order the lemon pie but prob save on bringing it out til a bit later. The chili was tasty and was not spicy although there were things available if you wanted to kick it up a bit. The lemon pies was amazing. Almost like a fluffier key lime pie. Between the bowl and the pie I was pretty filled up and including tax/ tip, this meal was really reasonable. A huge plus in my book! Would love to come back and try the chili fries or a chili dog but definitely left satisfied with the meal and that I got to finally check that box of having come here.

Steven U.

Yelp

Always great Staple food with twists, that's been around forever. Old fashioned diner stools around a counter only, or take out. Quick friendly service. Yummm.

Cee T.

Yelp

Yes, Chili John's has bomb chili. Yes, Chili John's has amazing bacon wrapped chili dogs, but did you know they sell ice box pies? They offer lemon and pineapple, and they're topped with homemade whip cream and graham cracker crusts. And they are sold year round!! Best to call ahead and pre-order. Do yourself a favor and get over to Chili John's stat!!

Kim K.

Yelp

You gotta love a greasy spoon! This small but charming eatery is a must if you love old school chili. We opted for build your own bowl. 12oz or 16oz. Pick your base.. Your protein.. and your toppings. I got beans, beef, cheese and onions. My friend got beef, onions, peppers, cheese. Mmmmmm. Medium heat. The grease is real! And we loved every bite of it. Not a fan of the upcharge for the small portions of cheese and sour cream, but you must have one or the other! So plan on the small charge to make it right. Bottle sodas only. Parking in rear and streets. Large"U" shaped bar only for sitting indoors. Takeout available. This is a no nonsense place. Nothing fancy. Just the basics. But certainly worth a visit.

Gala T.

Yelp

It's a sweat box!!! No air conditioning !! Above fans are coated in dust And prices keep climbing... not worth it

Angela G.

Yelp

I have been considering this place for years. But as a non red meat eater I wasn't sure that they would have a chili for me. Today a friend posted a picture of a hot dog that looked great and we were close by so we decided to stop by. Well when I walked in and looked at the place...I instantly changed my mind about ordering anything. First of all none of the staff had masks on. Meh. I'm not worried about getting Covid from food. But it was weird that they require guests to be masked, and I'm pretty sure they're still required indoors in LA County right? Beyond that, the place just looks pretty old and rundown. I can imagine that has a charm for some people but it turned me off. My husband is a stay the course kind of guy. So I still got his regular chili over rice. The portion was pretty small for the price. It's 12 oz of chili but they don't fill the container and half of it is rice. But it costs $10 for that. When we opened the package, it looked pretty unappealing. My husband said it tasted good enough. Not necessarily good enough to go back. But he liked it enough.

Cynthia B.

Yelp

this place is the best Found out my uncle and everyone's been going here, yum, cool real atmospher, awesome people and prices.

Thessa V.

Yelp

Chili breakfast burrito woohoo! Not that this is chili is only good for that but woah what a lifesaver. This chili spot is the greatest! I'm so thankful that it exists and that the taste is so good- it's that premium of a flavor and quality that you're looking for from Tommy's chili burgers and it's so good stand alone or with hot dogs and spaghetti!

Kirsten H.

Yelp

Always a favorite! Staff is charming and always willing to strike up a friendly conversation while also making sure your order comes in fast. The ambiance is extremely charming, although please be aware that this is one of the oldest businesses in Burbank and because of that, they have no AC. Food is delicious, although I think a tad bit overpriced. Overall, a great place to get a hearty meal.

https://onthegrid.city/los-angeles/burbank/chili-johns

On the Grid : Chili John's

https://la.eater.com/2025/3/24/24393013/ribtown-bbq-closed-south-la-2025

@eater

Ribtown, One of the Best Barbecue Trailers in South LA, Is Closed - Eater LA

"A historic Burbank restaurant known for its chili based on a 130-year-old recipe, facing risk of closure due to reduced sales." - Matthew Kang

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/best-restaurants-burbank

The 18 Best Restaurants In Burbank

View Postcard for Chili John's

Los Angeles

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/reviews/chili-johns

Chili John’s Review - Burbank - Los Angeles - The Infatuation