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Top picks in Central LA

Chili spots

A bowl of chili is the only thing that will settle the craving for something heavy and spiced.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Johnny's Shrimp Boat image 1
Johnny's Shrimp Boat image 2
Johnny's Shrimp Boat image 3
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Small, unassuming restaurant known for deep fried shrimp with a distinctive batter and freshness. Atmosphere is casual with a focus on comfort food like shrimp combos, chili cheese fries, and fish tacos. Offers affordable prices and maintains original flavors reminiscent of Downtown L.A.

Food features great taste and freshness especially when eaten on-site. Shrimp dishes stand out and prices stay reasonable.

Chili comes as a side without beans and also mixed into chili rice that pairs well with crackers. The chili rice adds extra flavor when combined with other dishes like cheeseburgers or shrimp.

People are saying

"I loved the fried seafood, especially the shrimp."

"The fish tacos here are super tasty and fresh."

"I loved the fried shrimp with rice and gravy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of shrimp and fries options.

2

Dining in is preferable for the freshest food experience.

3

You can order ahead to save time on your visit.

02
Boyle Heights Super Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger restaurant offers variety of burgers with crispy, smoky bacon and generous portions. Atmosphere feels humble and welcoming, with excellent prices that make meals a good value. Food includes standout items like avocado bacon burger and chili cheese fries.

Food features fresh preparation and top quality ingredients. Service supports the experience with consistent attention to quality.

Chili cheese fries come with a generous topping of chili and melted cheese. They pair well with the burgers served here.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were very good."

"The food here is delicious, especially the crispy fries."

"I enjoyed the chili cheese fries."

Good to know

1

The avocado bacon burger costs $8.

2

They offer a variety of burgers.

3

Deals are available for budget-friendly options.

03
Susuru Ramen Bar image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, intimate space with cozy mom-and-pop atmosphere and anime dรฉcor creates a friendly, vibrant vibe. The place feels like a hole-in-the-wall spot with authentic Japanese ramen and izakaya-style dishes. Seating is limited, making it best for quick, casual meals rather than groups.

Food features fresh ingredients and bold and subtle flavors. Dishes like katsu Donburi stand out for their quality and taste.

Tonkotsu broth comes with a salty, rich flavor that pairs well with the free chili powder offered. Chili flakes add a nice kick to the ramen when you want to elevate the taste.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is bursting with flavor."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The ramen broth was rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the area, so arrive early.

2

There arenโ€™t many seats available, expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so plan accordingly.

04
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Dim sum restaurant with banquet-style seating and a retro Chinatown vibe offers a spacious interior suited for large groups. Atmosphere ranges from family-style dining with lively energy to quieter, more rushed moments. Dim sum carts and traditional decor add to the authentic experience.

Food offers authentic Chinese flavors with consistent quality every visit. Dim sum and other dishes come at a price that matches the tasty, flavorful experience.

Spicy pork and shrimp wontons come with more chili and less oil, making them stand out. Dim sum features hot mustard and chili that are very spicy and flavorful, with good chili oil available at the table.

People are saying

"The Chinese food's honey garlic pork chop is crispy and aromatic."

"I found the food here to be very tasty and flavorful."

"The chili here is outstanding and very spicy."

Good to know

1

Visiting on weekends offers a busy yet tasty dim sum experience with trolley carts to choose from.

2

During the Mid Autumn Festival 2024 on September 17, the restaurant encourages celebrating and enjoying their dishes.

3

Parking can fill up quickly during lunch hours.

05
Oki's Dog image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small walk-up spot with a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere and cash-only policy. Food offers big flavor despite modest size, featuring standout items like the signature Oki Dog and pastrami sandwiches. The vibe is straightforward and unpretentious, focusing on quick, flavorful meals rather than ambiance.

Excellent food comes in generous portions at reasonable prices. Small space serves delicious dishes that often remind of childhood flavors.

Chili cheese fries come with pastrami, bell pepper, and onion for extra flavor. The Oki Dog wraps two hotdogs in a tortilla with chili and pastrami. Chili cheese burgers and fries offer solid deals and bold taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminded me of childhood."

"The pastrami burrito here is huge and excellent."

"I loved the chili cheese fries and chili dogs here."

Good to know

1

Oki's Dog accepts only cash payments.

2

There is parking available at Oki's Dog, but it can be tight.

3

Each dish easily feeds 2 to 3 people, offering good value.

06
Hui Tou Xiang image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Small space with disco ball ceiling and modern decor creates a casual, bustling vibe. Bar seating and open kitchen window add to the intimate, creative atmosphere. Music and lighting give a relaxed, jazz bar feel.

Food comes in plentiful portions and is inexpensive. The dishes are authentic and delicious, making it worth the drive for many.

Chili oil stands out with its amazing flavor and versatility, used in a dipping sauce mixing black vinegar and soy sauce or even paired with ice cream. Dishes like Xiao Long Bao and Chili Wonton highlight the bold chili presence.

People are saying

"These dumplings are fresh, flavorful, and handmade."

"I found the food here to be tasty and reasonably priced."

"The chili oil here is divine and surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or call ahead.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find.

07
El Tepeyac Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school Mexican diner with small indoor space and covered patio seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowd feels uplifting and positive, often lively but welcoming. Known for legendary burritos and authentic vibe that recalls past decades.

Authentic Mexican food stays consistent and excellent over many years. Every dish delivers great flavor and pairs with friendly service.

Chile Verde comes in a foot-long, 4-inch wide burrito that is rich and flavorful. The Chile Colorado features tender pork and matches homemade quality, making both options stand out.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is massive and loaded with flavor."

"I found the food here to be amazing and authentic Mexican."

"The Chile Verde here is awesome, even if it's red."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

2

Parking is generally easy, with street parking available nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable, but guacamole can significantly increase your bill.

08
Pho VT Thai Vietnamese Cuisine image 1

Small space with bright red decor and half a dozen tables creates a cozy atmosphere. Music playlist adds to the chilled vibe making it suitable for casual meals. The place feels clean and well-kept despite a simple exterior.

Food comes fresh with real herbs, not just seasoning. Portions are huge, often filling the takeout box to the brim. The menu blends the best of Thai and Pho with tasty, hot dishes.

Great chili oil adds heat and flavor. Eating the green chilis causes strong spiciness and coughing. Broth tastes average but could improve with fresh basil, chili peppers, and lime juice.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful and fresh."

"The food here is outstanding and so fresh."

"I love their great chili oil."

Good to know

1

Parking in front of the restaurant is very convenient.

2

The portions are generous for the price.

3

The restaurant is small and we were seated quickly at 5:30 pm on a Wednesday.

09
Irv's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school burger joint with retro vibes and a nostalgic atmosphere filled with the smell of fresh beef grilling. Indoor seating is organized and lively with loud music, while outdoor seating offers a breezy patio experience. The place draws those seeking classic American diner charm and reliable, great burgers.

Food comes out quickly with hot fries and a thick milkshake. The dishes taste absolutely delicious and consistently great.

Chili cheese dishes here have a flavorful taste without being salty. The chili cheese fries stand out as a favorite, and the chili cheese dogs and burgers hold up well even after some time.

People are saying

"The veggie burger is super flavorful and satisfying."

"I found the chili cheese fries to be very tasty."

"The food here is so flavorful and made with real care."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at Irv's Burgers, especially during peak hours.

2

The price of a burger combo is around $20 per person.

3

Irv's Burgers is a popular late-night option, open until midnight on weekends.

10
Amboy Quality Meats & Delicious Burgers image 1

Small space feels like a mini butcher shop with a cozy, quick-casual vibe. Outdoor patio offers a fun, chill atmosphere with wheel promotions adding a playful touch. Seating is limited but comfortable, attracting those seeking quality burgers in a casual setting.

Food comes out quickly and tastes incredible with reasonable prices. Meals are phenomenal and consistently great.

Chili here is exceptionally good with a sweeter profile. The chili cheese fries stand out, simple but effective, topped with onions and priced around $11.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be among the best I've ever had."

"You'll be happy with the thick patty burgers here."

"I thought the chili cheese fries were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of street parking available.

2

My total bill was about $42 after tax and tip for a cheeseburger and fries.

3

There was no wait to get the burger during my visit.

11
Al & Bea's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery offers cozy seating with live guitar music playing classic oldies outdoors. Atmosphere feels friendly and chill, with a time capsule vibe from 50's love songs and crooners. Outdoor dining is limited but shaded, creating a simple yet charming setting.

Fresh food and affordable prices define the menu here. Burritos, especially the bean and cheese, stand out as comfort food staples in the neighborhood.

Green chili features prominently in several dishes like green chili cheese fries and classic green chili and cheese burritos. Bean and cheese burritos pair well with the green chili, adding a hearty touch.

People are saying

"I thought the bean and cheese burrito was the best I've ever had."

"I tried the bean and cheese burrito; it was the best I've ever had."

"I loved the bean and cheese burritos with green chili."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to metered spots in front or across the street.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during meal hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but they don't provide detailed receipts.

12
Tom's Number 5 Chiliburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Neighborhood hamburger spot offers a calm atmosphere with a menu featuring breakfast hash browns, chili cheese fries, and Avocado Bacon Cheeseburger combo. The place stays busy and clean, attracting those seeking quick, flavorful meals. Prices tend to be on the higher side for a fast food joint.

Burgers stand out as the main highlight with solid and satisfying options. Food arrives quickly, around 7 minutes, and consistently tastes delicious and on point.

Chili cheese fries stand out with real breakfast hash browns and a strong flavor, though the chili itself tastes watered down and sometimes like dirty tap water. Prices run high, with small orders costing over $25.

People are saying

"I got a pastrami sandwich with extra mustard and pickles."

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"I thought the chili cheese fries were the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $17 for a combo meal.

2

Check your receipt for any undisclosed charges before leaving.

3

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

13
Original Tommy's World Famous Hamburgers image 1

Old school burger joint with a retro atmosphere and extra space inside offers a quiet, muted vibe. Known for chili cheese burgers and excellent fries, it serves quick, flavorful meals with a nostalgic feel.

Food comes out hot and fresh with consistently great quality. The chili on the burgers stands out, along with solid breakfast sandwiches and burritos.

Chili sauce here stands out as unique and delicious, adding intense flavor to burgers and breakfast items. The chili cheese fries with tomatoes come in large portions and deliver a satisfying, flavorful experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and always good."

"I thought the chili burger was the best in LA."

"I enjoyed the chili on the burgers and fries."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices for burger combos can reach up to $45.

3

Chili is a prominent part of the menu, so clarify if you want it.

14
King Taco # 9 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small cafeteria-style space offers relaxed atmosphere with chilled crowd and good energy despite occasional tension from outside noise. Open late hours accommodate those seeking a casual dining experience. Known for consistent tacos and burritos, especially al pastor and chicharrรณn varieties.

Food here is consistently delicious with well-seasoned meat and good quality. Portions are generous, and the atmosphere feels like a genuine taco shop.

Red chili stands out with strong flavor, especially on carne asada and pastor tacos. The green chili remains excellent and flavorful, with a texture worth bottling.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and burritos were the best Mexican food."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"I thought the green chili was still excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes for food during busy hours.

2

Parking is limited and has a 1-hour time limit.

3

They charge extra for additional salsa, even with a large order.

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Central LA, Los Angeles

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