Nothing soothes the savage winter beast better than a thick, steamy bowl of chili. Nearly everyone has a personal opinion on what constitutes the perfect recipe.
Some like beans, while others shudder at the idea. Some like a lot of heat, while others prefer it on the mild side.
Some prefer beef while others opt for lower-fat chicken, turkey or veggies only.
Bottom line: The beauty of a bowl of chili lies on the tongue of the beholder.
Ready to warm your tummy and tantalize your taste buds? Here are 10 chili hot spots where you can belly up for a hearty bowl.
Call ahead to check availability as chili is a seasonal offering on some menus.
Carolina Roadhouse
4617 N Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach
(843) 497-9911
Signature bowl: Ground beef, tomatoey chili with beans
Accompaniments: Cheese, scallions, sour cream and tortilla chips for dipping
Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
2617 Devine Street, Columbia
(803) 465-4947
Signature bowl: Carolina slow-cooked chili made from a spicy mix of beef, black beans, roasted corn and peppers
Accompaniments: Cheddar, sour cream, sweet onions, cilantro and a sweet corn cake
Five Loaves Cafe
1055 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mount Pleasant
(843) 849-1043
and
214 N Cedar Street, Summerville
(843) 804-9410
Signature bowl: Mexican chicken chili
Accompaniments: Cilantro and avocado
Groucho's Deli
Multiple locations across the state
Signature bowl: Chicken chili with a blend of vegetables, crushed tomatoes and select spices
Accompaniments: Good ol’ crackers
River City Cafe
Multiple locations along the Grand Strand
Signature bowl: Thick, ground beef chili fired up with a pepper trio: red, white and pickled jalapeño
Accompaniments: Shredded cheddar, diced onions and oyster crackers
Southern Hops Brewing Company
911 S Sunset Acres, Florence
(843) 667-1900
Signature bowl: Beef and bean chili spiked with house porter
Accompaniments: Shredded cheese
Ladles Soups
1175 Folly Road, Charleston (James Island)
(843) 225-8810
Signature bowl: Turkey chili with beans and corn
Accompaniments: Roll with butter
One Hot Mama's
35 Office Park Road, Hilton Head
(843) 682-6262
and
104 Buckwalter Parkway, Bluffton
(843) 815-6262
Signature bowl: Chili with a base of ground chuck and pork, seasoned and simmered with tomatoes and onion, then spiked with smoky brisket burnt ends
Accompaniments: Shredded cheddar and chopped red onion
