When you need something to warm your bones, there's nothing better than a bowl of chili. Whether you eat them loaded on hot dogs or served with no beans, there are countless restaurants serving up this comfort food dish. Originated in Mexico (or southern Texas according to some historians) there's more than one way to make a chili recipe. So we've decided to round up the best chili in the South.
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That said, we tried to stick to as traditional as possible, so no vegetarian chili or chicken chili were big contenders. Not to say we don't love a ground turkey and black bean chili, it just wasn't the focus this time around.
Who has the Best Chili in the South?
Ulele
Tampa, FL
Ulele (pronounced You-lay-lee), is a vibrant fusion of local Florida ingredients inspired by the Native Americans that once called Florida home. Ulele's Native chili features alligator, wild boar, venison, duck, ground chuck, cranberry beans, and chili spices, making this hearty chili one of a kind. Don't expect sour cream or Fritos on this one-of-a-kind chili.
Pinky's West Side Grill
Charlotte, NC
Featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Pinky's West Side Grill serves up its beef chili on burgers, hot dogs, and waffle fries drenched with homemade pimento cheese. Need I say more?
Burky's Grill
Myrtle Beach, SC
Voted Best Hot Dog in 2019, (presumably with the chili sauce loaded on!), this joint takes you back to the 1950s, car nights and all. Grab a chili bowl topped with diced tomatoes, onion, beans, and peppers. Cincinnati-style chili is also available, spaghetti noodles, cheddar cheese, and all!
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q
Atlanta, GA
You won't find ground beef chili here at this BBQ joint, brisket is the name of the game! Made with certified Angus beef and topped with diced red onions and cheese and served with cornbread. You can also order tots topped with chili or as a side.
Tip Top Grill
Birmingham, AL
