Cincinnati chili is a regional dish unique to the city of Cincinnati, Ohio. It is a meat sauce typically served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, onions, and beans. Unlike Texas chili, which is characterized by its use of chili peppers, Cincinnati chili is sweeter and spicier, with a flavor profile that is more akin to Mediterranean spices. The dish is believed to have originated in the early 1900s with Greek immigrants who adapted their own recipes to suit the tastes of their new hometown.
Cincinnati chili has become a beloved dish in the city and is a staple of local restaurants and diners. It is also a point of pride for Cincinnatians, who often debate which restaurant serves the best chili. Some of the most popular and well-regarded Cincinnati chili parlors include Skyline Chili, Gold Star Chili, and Camp Washington Chili. Each establishment has its own unique take on the dish, but all share the common characteristics that make Cincinnati chili so special.
