I have been wanting to try this place for months. The 4 star rating and many positive reviews had me sooooo anxious to bring my bf there. I was so excited. Wow, was I beyond disappointed. The waiter forgot every topping in our chili. We had to keep reminding him what to bring. He left the lid of the chili pot and restaurant door wide open while he went to the back to complete our order. Only the good lord knows what bugs have crawled in and hatched eggs in there. The waiter didn't wear gloves when he cut our hot dog. The owner looked a little unprofessional. Drinks weren't offered to us. I mean, it really was the absolute worst restaurant experience for us. The service was terrible and the place didn't exactly scream sanitary either. Also, the chili was very oily for me, some may like it??....but I would really recommend them to lessen up on the oil.......anyways, we're never going back. read more

We have given this place numerous chances during covid and after covid . The staff are very rude and also the food sucks . It is just a very greasy spoon with no flavor what's so ever . Who knows how long the chili sits in the pot before they finally get rid of it . And how old it is . The soda are hot because the cooler does not work . Do Your self a favor and avoid this with all Cost . We are there yesterday and I got a bad case of the shits after eating there . read more

An authentic, family run restaurant with an incredible history. The owners were very friendly and told us about all the natural ingredients they use in their food. The chili dog was incredible! read more

Chili Johns is a total staple for me to visit every time I come back to Burbank. The absolutely wonderful staff makes you feel right at home -- every time you come and no matter how you feel -- after work. The comfort food level is set high. They're attentive, and have absolutely hilarious stories. The current owner will go out of his way to make recommendations-- from the delicious pie to how to avoid mean celebrities-- and I value this family highly. Plus, his 'tats have super clean line work and bad*ss stores/meanings. Literally spent an hour and a half over dinner just shooting the breeze with this super cool dude. The atmosphere is super chill, and don't get me started on how delicious the Chili really is. No joke, best chili and rice dish I've ever had anywhere in the world. Plus, they offer delicious chicken chili if the beef is too heavy. I will always come back here when I visit Cali for as long as they let me in to eat perfect chili -- and have pleasant conversations -- with this wonderful, and down to earth, family. Really love the "family owned business" vibe they got goin' on. I really appreciate all y'all over at Chili Johns. You'll definitely see me at the counter there again! read more

Fun throwback to another time! I like that the chili comes in different heat levels. We came here after seeing Huell Howser gush over it and were glad we did. Most of the seating is counter seating but it's fun and the staff is friendly. Parking is easy and prices are fair. read more

I'm vegetarian so I had the chili with quinoa and it was pretty good - needed salt but that was a quick fix. Also had the lemon pie which was tasty as well. It's a cute spot for a quick bite in a nostalgic location. I appreciated that they let me bring my dogs in and that the servers were so friendly - I ended up having to put one of my puppies down that day at the vet down the block so he had his last meal there (a little bowl of chili). I'd gladly come back. read more

I REALLY wanted to like this place so badly. They have amazing service and such a charming old school location. But... I just didn't enjoy their chili. I got beef, spicy with cheese and sour cream. The chili is loaded with insane amounts of oil and has almost a sandy kind of texture. Unfortunately it just didn't mesh with my taste buds. I'm sure others would disagree entirely so don't be afraid to give this place a shot. Just don't have super high expectations. EDIT: I removed the photo at the owners request. read more

Dang, what an establishment. This place hits the spot both for my obsession with historical immersion and for some straight up yums lol. The service was impeccable. We were served by a young man and woman and both were extremely hospitable and friendly. We got the ultimate chili dog and a half order of fries. The portion sizes for the prices were fantastic. Their half size of fries was more than most restaurants full sizes and were perfectly crispy and had a delicious seasoning I didn't expect. The dog was layered and had fantastic textures. Tangy from the mustard, crunchy from the Fritos, sweet from the pickles and not to mention the delicious savory chili on top of the dog. Ugh 10/10. So happy to see places like this that look relatively untouched since the 40s are still around. Go to Chili John's for nostalgic comfort food, stay for the Americana. read more

Burbank is beautiful but I will avoid eating here again. The food tasted old and oily. I should of read the reviews. read more

I came here last year! I remember the girl serving the food at the door (COVID) was pretty rude. It's a really sucky feeling to hand over your money to someone who makes you feel uncomfortable. I loved the pie!! The chili was a little hyped up and not as good as I hoped. I would return bc I liked the greasiness and I would like to give it another chance. read more

My friend treated me to this place earlier today for lunch. He lives near by and has been telling me about this place for about a year now. Walking in I loved the old school dinner interior look. And loved that they are a family owned and operated business. To me, that's just a special thing to see in 2019. Called me old fashioned as a family man myself. My buddy and I both ordered their Redneck Breakfast. Along with their freshly brewed to order coffee. It being my first time they offered and allowed me to sample their different chilis. Everything was out of this world delicious! The customer service was fantastic. I say it all the time in my reviews I am a customer service first type of guy and this place was top notch. All of their employees including the family were very sweet and attentive. I also loved that they offer customer parking. Always a plus in Los Angeles! If you're hungry I suggest you pop in. I grantee you won't be disappointed. read more

Chili John's - Lunch time! Their menu - American Near Me - Burbank, California

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Never been there before. Stopped in got a chicken chili with a spaghetti base and loved it can't wait to go back and try another one.

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! read more

Disappointed in the staff. One person for 6 customers including to go orders. It's a sit down style restaurant but you will not get served a while. I came in here wanting a quick bite before my appointment but had to leave after ten minutes because service was so slow. I felt bad for the girl working but it doesn't excuse the lack of service when you're understaffed. Please hire more people read more

Can't get better then good food in a historic location! People super friendly- food amazing- nothing better I don't get the backlash- we had a great experience! Looking forward to the chili we get to bring back while digesting the spaghetti chili in our tummy. read more

Chili John's - Can't get better then good food in a historic location! - American Near Me - Burbank, California

The chili, and moreover, the place itself is semi-indescribable. I have never had chili that even comes close in style to this type of chili. It's an entirely different universe of chili. I highly recommend spending an hour at this luncheonette diner-counter dabbing beads of sweat off your forehead. The people, the place, the history is so built in. Definitely grab a shirt on the way out!! read more

This place used to be phenomenal, but since the death of the owner some years back, and at a rapid pace since the younger generation took over, everything about it has declined. To those familiar with it's once greatness, it's truly sad. At this point, it could only be resurrected by a serious restaurateur. read more

Old school diner at it's finest. Looking to visit a place where you can go back in time for a bit? They have an awesome horseshoe shaped counter when you enter. Just sit down and check out their menu. I ordered to go three items. Their signature chili bowl is great. I ordered the chili and spaghetti with cheese. It was so good. The chili does keep you full afterwards. I ordered the chicken tender sandwich which was very flavorful. The sloppy joe sandwich is delicious and filling. Their chili sticks to your gut and keeps you full. They also sell Mexican Coke which goes well with a big bowl of chili. They also have multiple types of chili such as mild, medium, and hot. We ordered mild since we are not heavyweights with chili heat. For the non-meat eaters, they have vegetarian chili too. I wanted to try their chili hot dogs but that will be for my next visit. Glad I stopped by. read more

Came here on impulse driving by on a Wednesday afternoon. Great chili, extremely friendly staff location straight out of the 1940s. Came here with my son and between us we had a bowl of straight chili, spicy, a Sloppy John and a couple of fountain drinks. Food was great. Our server was very friendly and awesome. If you're in the mood for chili and an atmosphere that feels classic, then come to Chili John's. Definitely recommended read more

Chili John's - Menu - American Near Me - Burbank, California

Overall, for the chili-lover -- and certainly for those who enjoy Green Bay-style chili -- CJ's menu is the best game in town; worth the trip. Indeed, one of my best friends is forever grateful when her husband travels from Lake Forest (south Orange County) to fetch a batch and satiates her CJ's cravings. And I trust my next visit will demonstrate improvements for those unpleasant and disappointing qualities identified below. I trust CJ's change in ownership from the Loguercio's to include Steve Hagar will preserve its quality standards we have enjoyed for decades. As a Los Angeles native, I want Chili John's to continue its legacy of unique, top-quality chili for our Southern California community, sharing traditions which originated early 20th Century from Green Bay, WI -- with all our Yelp feedback expressly for this purpose. First -- don't get on Honey's nerves; poor thing. One can clearly see, she's had quite enough from those of us who share our observations about how, after CJ's changed owners, a few details are now "different." Let's stop annoying the staff, mkay? (That's why we have written reviews.) A CJ's veteran and former West Toluca Lake resident, this evening I drove up from South Los Angeles -- returned after a long pause (... 2? maybe 3 years?) I'd bet a paycheck one of the Loguercio sons (Anthony, Alec) remembers me as that guy who invented the "chili float." Contrary to other reviews here, chili recipe flavor and fat content apparently the same. I'm mystified to read complaints about the grease, as a substantial quantity of unctuous beef suet is foundational for this recipe. REF: Chili Recipe | Alec Loguercio's Prep https://www.foodnetwork.com/videos/chili-johns-famous-chili-0206512 Was surprised when asked if I wanted hot or mild chili. Because during prior visits, one of the Loguercio sons shared the temperature of the chili was determined by the amount of chili added to the bowl -- on top of the beans, pasta, or rice (i.e. less chili = milder, more chili = hotter). So my choice is always straight chili -- the hottest option. This one exchange about the "hot or mild" option may alone serve as evidence to indicate some change to the recipe has occurred. But if so, I'm guessing the change is relevant to the spices added at the end of the recipe. My guess -- for CJ's new "mild" variant, some spices are withheld, likely just the cayenne pepper; but for the original "hot" the cayenne is added. The dude to my left with his bowl of hot was overwhelmed by the heat compounded by both the chili and absence of air conditioning (... 'twas my brother, whom I invited to join ... he was not prepared ... roflmao) So if YOU arrive on a hot day, be ready to push through the pain until the endorphins kick in. Embrace the challenge. The chili apparently now served in different bowls, different quantities. Although, requested my usual - a large bowl of straight chili, received a small colored bowl filled to its brim; this in contrast to the large white bowls I recall from years ago which were perhaps close to 1/2 full. Regardless of serving bowls, the large portion now seems smaller. Not a problem; times have been tough, so we all adjust. Bottom line, those smaller bowls make it difficult to avoid overflowing sides while one attempts to incorporate cheese, crackers & onions. About the pie, my critique -- nay, let's call it an opportunity for improvement. I left with a piece of lemon, and pineapple -- that was my understanding. In fact, when later I sampled each at home, they were neither; rather, I had two generous slices from a good quality but plain ice box pie. The pie maker needs training about how to add those lemon & pineapple ingredients. Or, maybe the person who stores those pies in the ice box needs to better label them? While some details about CJ's are now different, none are bad. Let's acknowledge every eatery post pandemic is now different. I'm happy CJ's is still open for business. And their most welcome change: they now accept other forms of payment (CJ's was formerly "cash only"). Chili-Head Pro Tip: also add a few shakes of vinegar to your chili -- it's the best; and this assumes you already have enough savvy to first fold-in cheese, oyster crackers & a heaping load of onions. MY SCORE -- FROM TODAY: 8/10 -- highly recommend (as always) ... and easily 10/10 when the pies are right (... and no penalty for hot weather -- CJ's can't control every variable) UPDATE -- next day: My purchase included 1/2 gallon of beef chili to go -- my normal routine for each visit. At home, I paid closer attention, and noticed remarkable texture differences, vs. all my prior visits. This batch contained several bits of gristle -- tough cartilaginous, and tendinous. During several bites, I removed unchewable bits; an unappetizing problem never before encountered. CJ's chili recipe calls for peeled beef knuckle (see video above), so I'm persuaded the beef for this batch wasn't fully peeled & trimmed. read more

Very disappointed, small portions, over priced! Bottled soda $3.25. Im better off going to Tommy's, better food better value! read more

Chili John's - Chili - American Near Me - Burbank, California

It wasn't the Cincinnati style chili that we are used to, but it wasn't terrible. The chili was heartier than most Cincinnati based chilis, but the flavor was a bit bland. We had to ask for extra cheese but we are used to more cheese. There was no air conditioning so it was so HOT inside. It would have been nice for outside seating because it was so warm inside. read more

Chili John's - 12oz 4-way onions (spaghetti, chili, cheese, and onions) - American Near Me - Burbank, California

So where to begin... first by my dad saying u have to write a review. I'm, like I know. So...here it is. the chili was good. Neither good nor bad, but rather thick and lacked the grease that u come to expect with old school Chili. When entering the establishment, it was completely empty. Just us and the prissy server. He was unpleasant. I'm not sure if he's tired of tourist coming in or what. But he was very unwelcoming. And prissy. I never used that word ever, but that's the only way I can describe his demeanor. But none the less, we ordered kinda scared because it was empty and that's a sign. But we drove out so we ordered. The portions are small compared to the old school dinner portions and for the price. U expect more. Just heaping amounts of chili and pasta fries cheese etc etc. none of that here. Just small. This place should take pride in their chili and be dishing it out in heaping amounts of unbearable old school style. But not here. U will given small over priced amount. This chili lacked moist, Watery texture, it was just clumpy. Neither good nor bad. The Turkey chili is actually 3 types of meat one including duck and it was very salty, minced meat, not really any texture of sorts. When these girls walked in no one was there to greet them so they looked at us and I'm like hello. But I don't work here. They should also be given an unwelcome greeting like I was given. UPDATE: 2 hours in. I have to vomit. On the way home. I'm sweating and in Discomfort. I'm lying in bed, sick to my stomach. God why u punishing me?!!!!!! WHY!!? 2023 I'm not going out to eat anywhere. This sealed the deal. read more

We decided to stop in today and the food was very good, this was my grandpas favorite spot , whenever he was in Burbank he would stop by. We had our little ones with us and they enjoyed the food as well. It's really cool to eat at a place that hasn't changed much and get the nostalgic vibe, We had the gentleman with the long hair , Steve I believe was his name, he was great, I also like how they appreciate military service and first responders, as we have retired service members in our family and active law enforcement. The pie was very good as well, we will definitely stop by again. Thanks Steve for your service. read more

First off, I think the chili itself is really good, no issues there. I got the spicy beef chili to go. The guy serving provided a lot of information on how real chili doesn't have beans, it would rot on the open range, cowboys wouldn't stand for it, etc. From the taste I believe that it is a chili that takes hours to develop, deep chili flavor, good spice kick and so on. My issue is that when getting a quart to go, it is served in a Mason jar (that's a big plus - plus $2, but I'm OK with that), but it came with literally 2/5ths of the jar having suet over the top. I know it is made with suet, and fat provides flavor, blah blah (I was informed), but that seemed excessive. Getting it home, I scooped out almost half the jar of suet and still had a hefty layer on top. I think that's a bit steep for almost $40 (I tipped) for a half quart of chili. I'll enjoy it but not sure I would return at that price for what you get. I'm OK with an inch of suet over the top but half the jar....? This is an update: Debbie (Business Owner) kindly offered to address my concern that there was a bit too much suet on the to-go order. Thanks very much but there is no need for that. We're not talking big bucks here and I want to support local businesses. Plus I love the flavor of the chili. I'll be back to try some other types with my Mason jar in hand to be filled up again. Thanks for the response. read more

Best Chili Ever! I get the Super Bowl with Spaghetti and Beans. Steve and his family are great people. One of the original restaurants in Los Angeles. read more

Hottest chili this side of Burbank! Spicier then the sunniest day in the valley. So if it's already heating up then avoid the chili firebomb but they also have mild as well. It can be good if it's cooler outside, but I ate it on summer day anyhow. 8oz of chili is very good, mostly tasty ground beef. You can't go wrong with that very filling and like $3. read more

Chili John's - Inside bar mostly bar area no tables except a few - American Near Me - Burbank, California

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'Nothing gold can stay' This USED to be one of my favorite places to eat in Los Angeles. I would proudly bring my east coast friends that were visiting to this "establishment". The place has changed hands and the new owners have changed the recipe. I know this because I spoke to one of original owners about it a few years ago. The beans are now under-cooked. How does a chili place do this? Sad to say, I don't think I will be returning here after 25 years! How did they make such a mess of the place? It is so depressing.. Chili John's go back to where you started from. Love, Los Angeles. read more

Chili is the perfect meal when it's raining in LA and Chili John's is the perfect spot to enjoy that quintessential hearty American meal. It doesn't have to be raining to fill your belly with any one of their chili varieties. You can enjoy it in a bowl or on a dog, but whatever you do, leave room for some lemon icebox pie. The staff is super friendly and will never steer you wrong. read more

Ally nos atendió de manera perfecta. El restaurante ofrece una gran variedad de menu. Desde hamburguesas super deliciosas hasta refrescos con temáticas antigüas. Las porciones son generosas. Y el precio es bastante accesible. Volvería a venir sin dudarlo. read more

Chili John's - Chili johns - American Near Me - Burbank, California

I've lived in Burbank all my life and have known of this place as long as I can remember. For some reason, I've never felt like rushing to try this place. Well today I was passing by on Burbank Blvd and was pretty hungry so I thought I'd give it a taste so I order their "signature" chili on spaghetti. When I arrived home I opened the bowl and had to scoop out less than 1/4 of the cup of oil. Yeah, pretty gross. Anyway, it looked prettty gnarly and I wondered where the spaghetti was so I put it in a separate bowl to find it at the bottom. I finally went to try it and it went down my throat and sunk to the bottom of my stomach like a brick. In regards to taste, it was alright. Nothing special. I sat there wondering how this place had been so popular for so long, then finally decided to have another bite. It's chili, I know it's heavy, but if you are looking for a cup of oil, beef, and beans you're well off going to Tommy's instead of paying over $10 for what these folks have to offer. Since my meal, my stomach has shamed me and filled me with regret for the next 24 hours on my poor stomach. RIP read more

Chili John's - Outside - American Near Me - Burbank, California

I've driven by this place a few times back in the day, but never stopped in. It was in the back of my head when I was in the area for work and decided to have lunch. Glad I did! I love the whole vibe of Chili John's. For weekday lunch it's very locals-only, with the staff chatting away with workers from the nearby studios. There are no tables or booths; everyone's seated at the horseshoe-shaped bar and your order is filled right in front of you. For my first visit, I got a regular bowl of medium chili with beans on spaghetti. It had a nice spice to it, but nothing too over-the-top. I added onions, cheese, and oyster crackers, giving my bowl a nice heft to it. I also added a few drops of vinegar, which was recommended for cutting through the heat. It was delicious! I'd never used vinegar on chili before, but I'd highly recommend giving it a shot. Was this the best chili I've ever had? I don't know about that. But I do know that I love the throw-back vibe at Chili John's and will stop by whenever in the area ... which is exactly what I did the following week, when my wife and I were in Burbank. read more

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Bland and spicy. Was going somewhere else it was closed. Driven past this place always looks closed. The chili is mush. How it's bland and spicy at same time takes talent. read more

Very nostalgic and the owners are so personable. It's great to support a small business that has been open for so long.

Throw back counter service with amazing chili, hot dogs and burgers. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Can't wait to come back!!!

Went in this past Wednesday and was greeted by a welcoming, fun staff and had a delicious lunch! The chili was so rich- the best I've had in California, ever!!! They were playing some blues music, not too loud and the environment was very nostalgic. Definitely a gem. Thank you for a great experience!! read more

food was fine however, claudine the manager was the rudest most disrespectful person ever. i found hair in my food and when i went to ask for them to remake my food, she gave me attitude and told me that i planted it and i would not be getting new food or a refund read more

Greasy chili, didn't get my rice becuz they sold out, WHAT? More like they didn't want to make more gave me 2 sodas which I don't drink instead they should've taken the extra charge for rice OFF my order! I will NEVER order from here again & would tell anyone else to SKIP this JOKE of a place! VERY DISAPPOINTED & want a refund! DO NOT PATRONIZE THIS SCAM. Thank you Claudine for refunding my $ I was looking 4ward to trying your chili after seeing your restaurant on Burrous Bites with KTLA5. If I order anything else I will come into your establishment. read more

Chili John's - THIS was a $34 order GREASY chili & substitute SODAS for my RICE that I ordered & paid for! I don't drink soda so this is a waste! - American Near Me - Burbank, California

I put in a online order.I was charged on my credit card and I never received my food.Do not order online because you will be charge and never receive the delivery read more

I have been coming to Chili Johns since 2010 or so. Back then the menu was smaller and cheaper. I understand prices go up especially between 2010 and 2024. However 1 chili dog with mustard and onions for $13. Not to mention I know this place has changed owners since 2010 at least once. And their beef chili has changed. The chili wasn't shredded beef chili when I first started going there. I met my buddy who turned me on to Chili Johns back in 2010 and in turn I turned others on to them. The chili yesterday 8/16 was the worst chili I have ever had there let alone most other places that serve chili. My buddy got the beef chili over rice. Both of us said the chili was absolutely dry as can be. The shredded beef was very dry and bland! The only reason I'm giving it 2 stars was because of our waitress. It did take some time once we ordered until we got our food and besides my buddy and I, there were only three other people in the same party already eating. The best part of the chili dog I got was the hot dog, onions and mustard. I'm not even a big bread eater but that was even better than the chili. If I had known I would have just gotten a hot dog with mustard and onions for $6.95 I believe it was. The extra $6.00 for the dry beef as that was all there was. No moisture in the chili at all. We both talked about it later on after we left and decided we would not return in the near future. I'm sorry I don't know if we caught them on an off day or what, but I won't pay that for a dry and bland chili. The restaurant was clean I will give them that. They didn't have any air conditioning running just the front and back doors open on a hot day in August. I know there are a lot of 5 star ratings and maybe that's how those customers like their chili. Whoever is the current owner has really missed the mark. I hope it was just an off day. I know Guy Fieri has his image painted on the wall with his autograph painted on from December of 2012 when the chili was absolutely delicious. I'd like to see him go back there and try it almost 12 years later. I'd like to get his opinion now. read more