Cincinnati is home to a unique culinary tradition that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike: 5-Way Chili. This dish contains spaghetti, chili, beans, onions and a generous pile of shredded cheddar cheese, creating a taste experience like no other. At the forefront of this tradition is Camp Washington Chili, a lounge that has not only been a neighborhood staple since 1940, but has also gained national recognition thanks to a James Beard Foundation award. Here, we explore five fascinating aspects of this famous chili parlor.
1. First of all, what exactly is a “5-Way”?
The classic Cincinnati 5-Way begins with a bed of spaghetti, topped with a finely spiced meat sauce known as chili. Chili’s unique flavor comes from warming spices like cinnamon and clove, giving it a flavor profile. Then, beans and onions add texture and a touch of sweetness. Finally, a soft mound of shredded cheddar cheese crowns the dish, melting slightly in the heat. This combination is served with oyster crackers for crunch, making it a complete sensory delight.
2. It’s a true late night (and early morning) classic, open 24/6.
Camp Washington Chili is known not only for its food, but also for its availability. Open 24 hours a day from Monday to Saturday, this lounge is a paradise for night owls and early risers alike. Whether you’re craving a midnight snack or an early morning meal, the doors are open. The restaurant’s welcoming lights and vintage charm attract customers from all walks of life. It’s a place where stories are shared over chili and the community comes together, no matter the time.
3. James Beard Foundation stamp of approval.
Camp Washington Chili’s esteemed status as a James Beard America’s Classics Award winner speaks volumes about its impact on the culinary scene. This distinction is reserved for establishments that serve exceptional cuisine, reflecting the character of its community. Inside, the restaurant has a nostalgic vibe, with booths and stools reminiscent of its mid-20th century roots. The walls are decorated with plaques and newspaper clippings, testimony to its famous reputation. It’s not just a meal here; it’s an experience that connects you to Cincinnati’s rich culinary heritage.
4. A neighborhood monument since 1940.
Camp Washington Chili has been a cornerstone of its community since 1940, originally founded in the Camp Washington neighborhood. Despite some land being moved in 2000 due to street construction, the lounge retains its vintage charm and restaurant-inspired architecture. The building’s design pays homage to its history, with classic neon signs and a welcoming facade. This enduring presence has made it a beloved spot for generations, serving as a culinary time capsule that honors Cincinnati’s past while embracing its future.
5. The flavor profile is typical of Cincinnati.
Cincinnati-style chili delights with its distinctive blend of spices and presentation. Unlike its Texas counterpart, this chili is a finely textured meat sauce enriched with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes cocoa. These ingredients create a warm, inviting aroma, perfectly complementing the spaghetti underneath. The result is a dish that is both comforting and intriguing, with flavors that dance in your mouth. This unique preparation method and spice blend define Cincinnati’s culinary identity, setting it apart from traditional renditions of chili.
6. How the locals actually eat it.
Cincinnati residents have their own way of enjoying the beloved 5-Way chili. Some prefer the traditional stacked version, while others customize it with a little hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese.
Sharing a table with friends, they add oyster crackers for a delicious crunch. Whether enjoyed on a leisurely afternoon or during an evening adventure, each bite resonates with local flavor and camaraderie.
The atmosphere is as much a part of the experience as the chili itself, where laughter and stories mingle with the rich aroma of spices.
7. Order your way or start smaller.
Chili parlor patrons are presented with choices that can overwhelm the uninitiated. Although the 5-Way, with its spaghetti, chili, beans, onions and cheese, is a crowd favorite, newcomers may prefer to start with a simpler 3-Way.
The menu encourages experimentation, allowing diners to find their perfect combination.
For those who crave customization, additional toppings and sides offer endless possibilities. Each order reflects personality and tastes, making each visit a new experience. The chili becomes a canvas, painted with individual preferences and culinary creativity.
8. Breakfast and dinner favorites too.
Beyond its famous 5-Way Chili, the lounge offers a hearty breakfast menu that attracts early risers and night owls alike. Eggs, bacon and toast share the spotlight with chili omelets and spicy pancakes.
The diner-style ambiance complements the eclectic menu, creating a warm and welcoming space for all-day dining.
Guests enjoy the blend of classic breakfast dishes and the signature chili twist, creating a delicious culinary fusion. This unique combination attracts the curious and the faithful, each eager to taste the unexpected harmony of flavors.
9. A family story behind the ladle.
The heartwarming history of this chili parlor is rooted in family tradition, passed down from generation to generation. Grandma’s carefully guarded secret recipe is the cornerstone of her success.
Each chili ladle tells a story of love, dedication and culinary heritage. Walls adorned with family photos echo the heritage that shapes each dish.
Visitors are not just customers; they are part of the extended family. The staff’s pride in their work is palpable, making each interaction authentic and personal.
10. If you go: where and when.
Located in the heart of Cincinnati, this chili parlor is more than a place to eat; it’s a landmark. Open six days a week, it invites visitors from here and elsewhere to discover its culinary offerings.
The cozy exterior is reminiscent of vintage charm, while the interior is full of energy and warmth.
Customers are advised to check local hours as the salon often accommodates special events and community events. Ensuring a visit in tune with this era guarantees a memorable experience, steeped in local culture and flavors.
