The Absolute Best Chili in Arlington [Updated 2025]

As I dug into bowls of spicy goodness and savory flavors, I left no stone unturned, sampling the chili from ten of Arlington’s top spots. Trust me when I say my taste buds have been on quite the adventure! With each spoonful, I’ve savored the unique twists and traditional recipes that make these dishes truly stand out.

You can count on my insights because I’m not just a casual diner; I’m a chili enthusiast who believes every bowl tells a story. So, whether you’re a chili connoisseur or just looking for a warm, comforting meal, let me guide you to the best chili Arlington has to offer. Prepare your taste buds for some serious flavor!

Nearly Famous Burgers and Wings

Highlights
Consistently amazing burgers
Generous chili cheese tots
Great fries and tots
Family-friendly atmosphere
Regular dining destination

Nearly Famous Burgers and Wings is a true gem in Arlington, and I must say, their chili is worth every visit. As I walked in, the family-friendly atmosphere instantly made me feel at home, setting the perfect stage for my taste test. I decided to start with their generous chili cheese tots, and let me tell you, it was a delightful choice!

The chili itself was rich and robust, packed with hearty chunks of meat and a symphony of spices that danced on my palate. It wasn’t just a topping; it added a delightful warmth and depth to the dish. The crispy tots provided a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the velvety chili.

While Nearly Famous is well-known for their consistently amazing burgers, it was the chili that stole the show for me. Their great fries and tots are also worthy sidekicks, making this spot a solid destination for the whole family.

If you ever find yourself craving a comforting bowl of chili in Arlington, this place has it all, and you'll leave with a happy belly and a smile. Make sure to give it a try!

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Chili's Grill & Bar

Highlights
Excellent service by DeSean
New look is amazing
Great food options
Mixed experience reported
Long wait times noted

Chili's Grill & Bar in Arlington is a place where fun meets flavor, and I had the pleasure of diving into their chili for the sake of research—and my taste buds couldn't thank me enough! Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the new look of the restaurant; it’s vibrant and inviting, promising a good time ahead.

However, my excitement was tinged with a slight wait—I hear this can be a common occurrence here. Once I was seated, the cheerful server, DeSean, took the stage with his excellent service, making my experience all the more enjoyable.

Now, let’s talk about the chili! It was a delightful pot of zest and warmth, with just the right amount of kick and a generous helping of toppings. The seasoning was on point, making each spoonful a cozy hug in a bowl. Though not all visits are uniform in experience, this one certainly tipped the scales toward the delicious end of the spectrum.

In the quest for the best chili in Arlington, Chili's deserves a spot at the table—just perhaps be prepared for a slight wait amidst the good times!

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Twisted Root Burger Co.

Highlights
Thick and tasty burgers
Interesting pickle options
Great atmosphere
Helpful staff
Enjoyable oreo milkshake

Twisted Root Burger Co. in Arlington is not just a haven for burger enthusiasts—it's also an unexpected treasure trove of delicious chili. The moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. I ordered their signature chili to see if it lived up to the reputation, and I was pleasantly surprised by its thickness and robust flavor.

The chili itself was a hearty blend of spices that struck a perfect balance between smokiness and warmth, inviting me to savor every spoonful. What truly caught my eye was the unique array of pickles offered alongside their mouth-watering burgers. It’s a delightful way to jazz up your meal and complement the flavors of the chili.

As a milkshake aficionado, I couldn't resist trying their infamous Oreo milkshake, which was the cherry on top of my visit. The combination of the savory chili with the creamy shake created a playful contrast that left my taste buds dancing.

If you're in the area and hunting for a chili experience that's both satisfying and fun, Twisted Root Burger Co. is your destination. Trust me, your palate will thank you!

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Dog Haus Biergarten

Highlights
Unique flavors and combinations
Laid-back atmosphere
Friendly and attentive staff
Clean and well-maintained
Welcoming for families

Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Arlington, Dog Haus Biergarten delivered a culinary experience that was both playful and satisfying. Upon stepping inside, I was immediately drawn to the laid-back atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The friendly and attentive staff welcomed me with open arms, setting the tone for what was to be an enjoyable tasting adventure.

Now, let’s dive into their tantalizing chili. This isn’t just your typical bowl of chili; the unique flavors and combinations really stand out. Each spoonful bursts with rich, smoky undertones that create a perfect harmony with the hearty beans. It brings a warmth that’s utterly comforting and reminds you why chili is such a beloved classic.

What truly impressed me was the cleanliness and attentiveness around the Biergarten – a testament to the care they put into their establishment. With a commitment to quality and a menu designed to please, I left Dog Haus not just with a full belly, but also with a warm feeling of satisfaction. If you find yourself in Arlington and crave a delightful bowl of chili, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this gem a visit. You'll find chili that’s anything but ordinary!

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Restaurant506

Highlights
Old world ambiance
Outstanding food and service
Perfect for date nights
Engaging culinary discussions
Quaint B&B atmosphere

Restaurant506: A Chili Experience Worth Savoring

Stepping into Restaurant506 feels like a warm embrace from a bygone era, with its charming old world ambiance that invites you to unwind. As I settled at my table, the delightful aroma of spices wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds and prepping me for what was to come.

The chili here is nothing short of spectacular. It's a robust blend that marries tradition with creativity, featuring tender chunks of beef and an exceptional kick that keeps you coming back for more. Paired with a side of fresh cornbread, this dish stands out as a perfect companion to a cozy evening.

What truly elevated my experience was the outstanding service. The staff was not only friendly but also genuinely passionate about the menu, eager to dive into engaging culinary discussions about the ingredients and flavors. After enjoying my chili, I was tempted to linger a bit longer, soaking in the quaint atmosphere reminiscent of a charming B&B.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a casual outing, Restaurant506 has crafted the ultimate chili experience that deserves a spot on any food lover’s list. I’ll definitely be returning for another bowl of that magical chili!

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Cafe Americana

Highlights
Beautiful atmosphere
Exceptional service
Fresh and flavorful food
Craft artisanal cocktails
Reasonable pricing

Cafe Americana: A Chili Experience Worth Savoring

Stepping into Cafe Americana feels like a warm hug from a favorite aunt—inviting and full of charm. The beautiful atmosphere sets the perfect backdrop for my culinary adventures in search of the best chili in Arlington. As I settled into my seat, the exceptional service immediately caught my attention; the staff is engaging and genuinely passionate about their offerings.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chili. Served piping hot, this delightful bowl is a fiesta of flavors, combining fresh ingredients that sing the praises of each other. The spices are perfectly balanced, allowing the robust richness to shine through without overpowering the taste buds. It's the kind of chili that dances on your palate—bold yet comforting.

Pairing this deliciousness with their craft artisanal cocktails is a treat that elevates the entire dining experience. And the best part? With reasonable pricing, you can enjoy this culinary delight without breaking the bank!

In short, if you're on the hunt for top-notch chili in Arlington, Cafe Americana should undoubtedly be on your radar. I can't wait to return for another round!

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Soy Cowboy

Highlights
Beautiful decor
Attentive service
Appealing dish presentations
Refreshing cocktail options
Inconsistent condiment service

Review of Soy Cowboy: A Chili Experience

Stepping into Soy Cowboy feels like entering a vibrant fusion of tastes and cultures. The decor is a feast for the eyes, with beautifully artistic details that set the stage for a delightful culinary journey. I was immediately impressed by the attentive service, as the friendly staff made my visit all the more enjoyable.

Now, let’s talk chili! This trendy spot prides itself on a unique twist to the classic dish. The chili here boasts a perfect balance of spicy and savory, topped with an array of tantalizing garnishes that boost the presentation. Each spoonful reveals layers of flavor that dance on the palate—it's mouthwatering!

However, amidst the delightful experience, I found the condiment service a tad inconsistent. While I enjoyed the offered toppings, their availability seemed a bit hit-or-miss. Still, the overall ambiance and the exciting cocktail options made for an extraordinary outing.

If you're in Arlington and on the hunt for a new chili adventure, I highly recommend making Soy Cowboy your next stop. It’s a place where every bite leaves you craving more, making it a worthy contender in the quest for the best chili in town!

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Royal Nepal TX Bar and Grill

Highlights
Pleasant ambience
Exceptional goat curry
Amazing chicken momo
Delicious garlic naan
Excellent chatamari presentation

Royal Nepal TX Bar and Grill truly stands out among the local chili spots in Arlington, offering an unforgettable experience that goes beyond mere expectations. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a pleasant ambience, filled with warm colors and delightful aromas wafting through the air. I knew I was in for a treat.

While their chili isn't the first thing that comes to mind, the unique spin they put on it caused my taste buds to dance. The goat curry here is an absolute revelation, offering a perfect blend of spices that elevates traditional chili into an art form. Each bite was a harmonious medley of flavors that left me craving more.

Additionally, the chicken momo served as a fabulous companion to the dish, enhancing the overall experience with its exquisite texture and taste. And let's not forget the garlic naan, which was fluffy and wonderful—perfect for dipping into the savory sauce of the curry.

The presentation of the chatamari was nothing short of spectacular, adding a visual delight to my meal. Overall, Royal Nepal TX Bar and Grill offers a delightful twist on chili that makes it a must-visit spot in Arlington.

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The Tipsy Oak

At The Tipsy Oak, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and a delightful array of flavors in their chili. The smoky undertones danced harmoniously with the tender meat, while a hint of spice added a playful kick that kept me coming back for more. Each spoonful was a testament to their commitment to quality and taste. What truly stood out was the hearty texture, which felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. If you’re in Arlington, this chili is an essential stop—comfort food at its finest! Don’t pass up the chance to indulge!

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Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch

Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch is a vibrant spot where the chili is as bold as its decor! I dived into their signature beef chili, which delivered a delightful punch of spices and a rich, hearty flavor that warmed my soul. The tender chunks of beef melted in my mouth, while a hint of smokiness danced on the palate—a perfect companionship with their homemade cornbread. The atmosphere buzzed with friendly chatter, making each spoonful taste like a gathering of friends. If you’re looking for chili with character and a touch of Arlington flair, Mariano’s is a must-visit!

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