By: SAMANTHA MILLS
About three minutes from Boone, at 419 East Michigan Ave., a new and improved location from the little shack with a window at 2603 E. South Street that it used to be, Chili Daddy is a hidden gem that gives stiff competition to the old family recipe.
Depending on the day of the week there are up to 10 chilies to chose from, such as Mango Chicken Chili, Vegan Chili with Chickpeas and their infamous Private Reserve or “Ultimate Red.” Chili Daddy also has an array of perfect serving sizes to fit one’s hunger and budget, from a cup ($4.99), a bowl ($6.95), a pint ($8.95), a quart ($17.49) or even a gallon ($64.95). You can also get chili served over Jasmine rice, which is $3.89 a cup, $5.49 a bowl, $6.95 a pint or $12.89 a gallon.
The service is quick and efficient. Order in and your meal is ready in under a minute or order for carryout and it’s ready in a box in less than three, both hand delivered to your table by a very friendly owner.
Though small, Chili Daddy is bursting with flavor and a variety of home-style meals and snacks. Not only do they serve delicious chili, but also tacos ($2.19 each or 3 for $5.99, chilidogs (Small $3.59 or large $4.39) and what they call a “Frito Pie (Small $3.99 or Large $5.79),” which consists of chili, cheese and sour cream on top corn chips. Also, soda cans are sold for $1 to quench your thirst as well as chips and freshly made salsa.
There aren’t many drawbacks to this place, except that it closes at 7:30 in the evening, and only accepts cash.
Honestly, if you don’t like chili, this may not be your cup of tea. If you do, though, check out what just might be the best place in town to get chili.