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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 518 Opinions
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01
Johnny's Shrimp Boat image 1
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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 shrimp with rice and gravy."

"You have to try the chili rice with crackers."

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
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Retro 90s South Korean style fills the spacious interior with brick walls and K-pop music. Atmosphere balances between lively and relaxed, with noise levels that allow private conversations. Fresh draft beers and a variety of Korean fried chicken options create a popular spot for casual dining and late-night meals.

Food here is consistently delicious and immaculate. Every dish serves up great flavor with reliable quality.

People are saying

"The chicken dishes here are delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Thanks Chicken is open from 5pm to 2am for late-night cravings.

2

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm with discounted drinks.

3

A 50% discount is available until 7 PM on select items.

03
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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

"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.

04
Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles image 1
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Small space with simple interior and lively atmosphere creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Bright ceiling lights contrast with pendant lighting, centering attention at the bar where servers move actively. A family-friendly feel blends with authentic Thai energy and crowd.

Food here is absolutely authentic and rivals dishes from high-end restaurants. The flavors are fantastic and deliver a taste experience like eating Thai food in Thailand.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender beef."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot and in the parking structure.

2

The Original Thai Boat Noodle Soup costs $8.95 for dine-in and $13.95 for to-go.

3

There is a $5.00 difference in price between dine-in and to-go orders.

05
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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

"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.

06
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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

"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.

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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

"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.

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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

"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.

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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 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.

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Central LA, Los Angeles

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