Cincinnati is home to a unique culinary tradition that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike: the 5-Way chili. This dish layers spaghetti, chili, beans, onions, and a generous mound of shredded cheddar cheese, creating a flavor experience unlike any other. At the forefront of this tradition is Camp Washington Chili, a parlor that has not only been a neighborhood staple since 1940 but also gained national recognition with a James Beard Foundation award. Here, we explore five fascinating aspects of this celebrated chili parlor.
1. First, what’s a “5-Way,” exactly?
The classic Cincinnati 5-Way starts with a bed of spaghetti, topped with a finely spiced meat sauce known as chili. The chili’s unique flavor comes from warming spices like cinnamon and clove, giving it an aromatic profile. Next, beans and onions add texture and a hint of sweetness. Finally, a fluffy mound of shredded cheddar crowns the dish, melting slightly from the warmth. 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 just for its food, but also for its availability. Open around the clock from Monday to Saturday, this parlor is a haven for night owls and early risers alike. Whether you’re craving a midnight snack or an early morning meal, the doors are open. The diner’s inviting lights and retro charm draw in patrons from all walks of life. It’s a place where stories are shared over chili, and the community comes together, no matter the hour.
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 accolade is reserved for establishments that serve exceptional food, reflecting the character of its community. Inside, the diner exudes a nostalgic vibe, with booths and stools reminiscent of its mid-20th-century roots. The walls are adorned with plaques and newspaper clippings, a testament to its celebrated reputation. It’s not just a meal here; it’s an experience that connects you to Cincinnati’s rich food heritage.
4. A neighborhood landmark since 1940.
Camp Washington Chili has been a cornerstone of its community since 1940, originally founded in the Camp Washington neighborhood. Despite relocating a few lots over in 2000 due to street work, the parlor maintains its vintage charm and diner-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 uniquely Cincinnati.
Cincinnati-style chili captivates with its distinctive blend of spices and presentation. Unlike its Texas counterpart, this chili is a finely textured meat sauce enriched with aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes cocoa. These ingredients create a warm, inviting aroma, perfectly complementing the spaghetti beneath. The result is a dish that’s comforting yet intriguing, with flavors that dance on the palate. This unique preparation method and spice blend define Cincinnati’s culinary identity, setting it apart from traditional chili interpretations.
6. How locals actually eat it.
Cincinnati residents have their own cherished ways of savoring the beloved 5-Way chili. Some prefer the traditional piled-high version, while others customize it with a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese.
Sharing a table with friends, they add oyster crackers for a delightful crunch. Whether eaten on a leisurely afternoon or during a late-night 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.
Patrons of the chili parlor are presented with choices that can overwhelm the uninitiated. While the 5-Way, with its spaghetti, chili, beans, onions, and cheese, is a crowd favorite, newcomers might prefer starting with a simpler 3-Way.
The menu encourages experimentation, allowing diners to find their perfect combination.
For those craving customization, extra toppings and sides provide endless possibilities. Each order reflects personality and taste, making every visit a new experience. The chili becomes a canvas, painted with individual preferences and culinary creativity.
8. Breakfast and diner favorites, too.
Beyond its famed 5-Way chili, the parlor offers a hearty breakfast menu that attracts both early risers and night owls. Eggs, bacon, and toast share the spotlight with chili omelets and spiced pancakes.
The diner-style ambiance complements the eclectic menu, creating a warm, inviting space for all-day dining.
Customers relish the blend of classic breakfast fare and the signature chili twist, creating a delightful culinary fusion. This unique combination draws in the curious and the loyal, each eager to taste the unexpected harmony of flavors.
9. A family story behind the ladle.
The heartwarming tale of this chili parlor is steeped in family tradition, passed down through generations. Grandma’s secret recipe, guarded closely, forms the cornerstone of its success.
Each ladle of chili tells a story of love, dedication, and culinary heritage. The walls adorned with family photos echo the legacy that shapes every dish.
Visitors are not just customers; they become part of the extended family. The staff’s pride in their work is palpable, making every interaction genuine and personal.
10. If you go: where and when.
Located in the heart of Cincinnati, this chili parlor is more than a dining spot; it’s a landmark. Open six days a week, it invites visitors from near and far to experience its culinary offerings.
The cozy exterior beckons with vintage charm, while the interior buzzes with energy and warmth.
Guests are advised to check the local hours, as the parlor often adapts to special events and community happenings. Ensuring a visit aligns with these times guarantees a memorable experience, steeped in local culture and flavor.
