Some reviewers just don't seem to get it. Do you have any idea how old this place is, or its history? Their own oyster crackers are said to have inspired Nabisco to market them. The logo copyright is older than... The Burbank location is the oldest restaurant in the town.
Only a lightweight or novice would compare Tommy's or any good hot dog sauce to real chili. Yes, CJ's has hot dogs and the right sauce for those too, but it's really about the politically incorrect and oh-so-real chili here. Jumbo Judy and RJ Rev are both right about the menu choices, in fact. And so are Trip Advisor and Chris R about other facts.
Chili John makes only one chili, and it's hot. If you want it milder, add some of their fantastic signature pink beans. Still too hot? More beans. And please don't stir them. A little beans, chili oil (and other condiments, if you like) should complement the chili on your spoon, not be whirled into it.
Now if they'd just put up a website like the original in Wisconsin, so we can order the grub from out of town. I had the pleasure of getting my regular Chili John's fix for over twenty years while in LA throughout the 80s and 90s, and it will never be enough.
--Pirate Paul
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