What is Kansas City-style chili? Chili means many things to many people. For some it is a soup/stew enjoyed in a deep bowl with a big spoon. For the unfamiliar, Kansas City-style chili may come as quite a surprise. Kansas City-style restaurant chili is eaten with a fork, not a spoon. Hearty plates of chili-seasoned ground beef are served wet (with some grease) or dry, with or without beans and with the option of adding some ketchup, jalapeno sauce, onions, cheese or chili powder for flavor. These local restaurants have been making history dishing up hot plates of chili to satisfied customers for nearly 100 years!
Dixon's Famous Chili 9105 E. US Hwy. 40, Independence, MO, 816.861.7308
Dixon’s is one of Kansas City’s most famous restaurants—both for its chili and for its most beloved patron, President Harry S. Truman. Serving chili since 1919, Dixon’s hasn’t changed much since Truman frequented the lunch spot. And, much like the man from Missouri himself, Dixons’ is simple: basic diner-style restaurant atmosphere, serving up original Kansas City-style chili. This is a local landmark with a long history as one of Kansas City’s most popular diners.
Fritz’s Chili 6737 W. 75th St., Shawnee Mission, KS, 913.381.3543
Originally a part of the Dixon’s chain, the Kansas location was owned by the Fritz family. In the early 1970s, the name was changed to Fritz’s Chili, and the favorite Johnson County lunch spot continues to dish up Kansas City-style chili.
Hayes Hamburger and Chili 2502 NE Vivion Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.453.5575
Catering to customers in the Northland since 1955, Hayes serves Kansas City-style chili in a cup or on a burger or fries. Fans also love their burritos, tamales and sandwiches.
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
13803 W. 63rd St., Shawnee, KS, 913.375.1000250 N. 18th St., Kansas City, KS, 913.281.27772450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.474.4004
Famous for trains delivering food directly to tables, Fritz’s is a favorite with children. The menu includes burgers, fries and shakes….and Kansas City-style chili, to be enjoyed in a cup, on a burger, hot dog or fries.