Real Chili in downtown Milwaukee (see map) is the closest thing to Cincinnati-style chili available outside of Cincinnati, and not part of a chain that originated in Cincinnati. Actually, I was told once by someone at Real Chili that their style of chili is a cousin to what is known as "Green Bay Style Chili". That style began in 1916 by a Lituanian immigrant by the name of John Issac who opened up Chili John's in Green Bay. It's still going strong, but I've yet to eat there.
There's not much to Real Chili - the decor is decidedly from the 60's and hasn't been updated in 40 years. There's a lunch counter, booths and tables in the place. Their chili can be served plain or up to the five way chili (with spaghetti and cheese) that is famous in Cincinnati. Only Real Chili's chili doesn't have the sweet all-spice and cocoa taste to it. It's more of a traditional Midwestern chili, flavorful with a touch of vinegar.
The chili dogs at Real Chili are top notch. Once again, I don't like to put cheese on the chili dogs as it detracts from the overall taste, but a little bit of fresh shredded cheddar is not too bad on these.
Real Chili is unique in that you don't see many chili places like it in larger downtown areas any longer. And because of its location - and the fact that it's open late - Real Chili is a popular late night stop for college students and young adults out bar-hopping. In fact, the first time I ate at Real Chili was with Cindy around 12:30 a.m. when we'd been down at Summerfest all day long. Oh boy - chili dogs just before bed!
There's also a Real Chili over by Marquette University (see map). It's been a popular hang out for a number of years. I have yet to go there, opting to eat at the original Real Chili 20 blocks to the east each time I have a chili dog hankering in Milwaukee.
Real Chili - it certainly is!
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