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Camp Washington Chili
Cuisine: American
Price Range: $
10Best Says
Family-owned for over 75 years, Camp Washington Chili is a Cincinnati favorite that was named one of the 20 Most Iconic Food Destinations Across America by Smithsonian Magazine. Cincinnati chili was... Read More
Family-owned for over 75 years, Camp Washington Chili is a Cincinnati favorite that was named one of the 20 Most Iconic Food Destinations Across America by Smithsonian Magazine. Cincinnati chili was invented by Greek immigrants and is very different than Texas-style chili, both in the spices and the presentation. A 'three-way' consists of chili served over spaghetti then topped with a generous mound of finely shredded cheddar cheese. Beans or chopped onions are added for a 'four-way'; both are added for a 'five-way.' Cincinnati chili can be found all over the city in local chains and independent restaurants. Camp Washington Chili serves theirs 24 hours a day, 6 days a week (closed Sundays). When the street was being widened several years ago, owner Johnny Johnson built a new building next to the old one and moved the casual, family-friendly eatery into the bright new space without missing a beat. They grind their own meat and make fresh chili daily with no preservatives. Their consistent quality and service resulted in the restaurant earning a James Beard American Regional Classic award.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Terri Weeks
Cincinnati Local Expert
- Best Restaurants: "If you've never had Cincinnati chili, leave behind all your preconceived notions of what chili should be. Be sure to try chili the way Cincinnatians eat it: over spaghetti and topped with cheese, with some oyster crackers on the side."
- Recommended as Best Restaurants Because: Cincinnati chili is an iconic food and Camp Washington Chili has been making it consistently well for over 75 years.