The Absolute Best Chili in Houston [Updated 2025]

After tasting several chili recipes from around the city, I've narrowed down my top seven. From west to east I went, sampling a range of concoctions so unique they could only be Texans.

The journey was filled with surprises, excitement, and of course delicious food! While there were some worthy contenders - and all very enjoyable - one chili stood above the rest. In this article, I'll share my insights on the best chili in Houston (as well as some honorable mentions).

Rodeo Goat

The chili at Rodeo Goat is hard to beat - it's consistently flavorful and never too spicy. The beef is always perfectly cooked, with a great texture. I'm a fan of their customizable bowls where you can pick your own ingredients such as jalapenos, onions, cheese, and more.

The atmosphere at Rodeo Goat also adds an extra layer of enjoyment that you don't get with most chili spots. It's cozy yet modern and makes for a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.

Overall I would definitely recommend Rodeo Goat for anyone looking for the best chili in Houston!

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The Burger Joint

I've been eating at The Burger Joint since I was a kid and their chili is still just as delicious. The chili has a perfect balance of smokiness and spiciness, making it the perfect meal whether you're watching a game or catching up with friends.

Their chili also hits the spot when my cravings for Tex-Mex kick in. What makes their chili stand out is the flavor — it's both robust and flavorful and yet not too heavy on the palate. The generous amount of toppings like onions, cheese, jalapenos, sour cream, and crispy tortilla strips make it even more irresistible!

The Burger Joint really knows what they're doing when it comes to chili — I'd go as far as saying that this is the best chili in Houston!

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The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar

I had the pleasure of sampling all kinds of different chilis from their menu, and I can confidently say that the jalapeno cheddar chili was the clear winner in my book. It was truly delicious! The chili was super flavorful and had just the right amount of spice.

The portions are also generous, making it a great choice for sharing with friends or a large group. Plus, it's served with a side of cornbread which is an added bonus.

In general, the atmosphere at The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar is incredibly cozy and inviting - they definitely put effort into the decor! Plus, the staff are friendly and attentive.

At the end of the day, if you're looking for some truly delicious chili that won't disappoint, look no further than The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar - it'll give you one of the best chili experiences in Houston!

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Local Foods

The chili is packed full of flavor and packs a punch! It's the perfect combination of spicy and hearty that lingers on your tongue. Not only are the flavors remarkable, but the texture is spot-on as well - it's not too thick or too runny, it's just right!

You can get creative with what you put in your chili and customize it to your own preferences. The staff is also incredibly friendly which makes ordering it all the more enjoyable.

In my opinion, Local Foods serves up some of the best chili in Houston! If you're looking for an amazing meal that you'll never forget - this is definitely one worth trying.

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Flip 'n Patties

The chili here is always incredibly flavorful and the heat doesn't overpower. I'm especially fond of the chunks of beef, which are tender and juicy. The beans are cooked just right - not too mushy, not too crunchy.

I think what sets Flip 'n Patties apart from other chilis in Houston is their attention to detail. Every time I visit, the presentation looks amazing! Plus, the staff are always so friendly and accommodating.

On top of all that, the prices here are unbeatable - it's one of the most affordable places for great chili! In my opinion, Flip 'n Patties is definitely the best chili in Houston.

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Craft Burger

The chili here is particularly special because it's made with 100% fresh ingredients and loaded with delicious spices. It has the perfect balance of smokiness, savory flavor, and just the right amount of heat that hit all the right notes.

The presentation of this chili is beautiful - it comes topped with jalapenos, cheddar cheese, diced onions, and sour cream to really give it a unique flavor profile. The flavors blend so perfectly together that you can't help but feel fully satisfied after eating it.

The people at Craft Burger also know exactly how much chili to put in each order - not too much or too little. They also make sure to get the portion size just right so that you don't feel like you're going to be weighed down after eating it.

As far as I'm concerned, Craft Burger has some of the best chili in Houston! If you're ever in the area, be sure to stop by and try their amazing creations.

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MKT Bar

The chili at MKT Bar is truly something special. The flavor is like no other - it packs a flavorful punch with just the right amount of spice and smokiness. From the first bite, I could tell that this chili was made from scratch with quality ingredients.

The texture of the chili is also noteworthy; it's thick and almost creamy, but still has bits of beef that give it some welcome texture. It's not too greasy either - perfect for dipping chips or topping your favorite dish.

The service at MKT Bar is also excellent; all of their staff are friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to answer any questions you have about their menus or specials. They even offer takeout services if you're in a hurry!

Overall, I'd rate MKT Bar as one of the best chilis in Houston. With its delicious flavor, quality ingredients, and great service, it's an experience not to be missed.

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