Welcome To The Texas Chili Parlor

The Texas Chili Parlor is a legendary hole‑in‑the‑wall Tex‑Mex chili joint located at 1409 Lavaca St, right in the shadow of the Texas State Capitol in downtown Austin.

Praise, Press & Potshots

The Parlor

Home of Texas Red Chili

Our doors opened in the shadow of the Texas State Capitol in 76' - and the next year red chili became the state dish. Coincidence? We think not.

" One cannot be a true son or daughter of this state without having his taste buds tingle at the thought of the treat that is real, honest-to-goodness, pure, unadulterated Texas chili.

- Texas House Concurrent Resolution, No. 18 (1977)
Sign the waver, go for it.

XXX Chili

Our XXX chili ain’t for tourists. It’s hot, it’s mean, and it comes with a waiver. Sign it. Eat it. Then sweat it off with a margarita.

At The Bar

Mad Dog Margarita

Not your mama’s marg. The Mad Dog was invented in the 70s by a crew of regulars including Texas music legend, Guy Clark, and a other outlaw creatives. It's stiff, unapologetic, and not too sweet.

Unmatched Flavor

We swapped tequila for smoky mezcal, for a bolder and more complex flavor and earthy fire.

Local Tradition

Order one, and you're taking part in a decades-long tradition.

What People Are Saying

...after a few margaritas.

"This is a must see and eat place in Austin. The food and service were excellent."

Silas Lewis

"Delicious food at a reasonable price, in a great, no-nonsense atmosphere."

Duffy Tweedy

"Old school as it gets! Chili, burgers and enchiladas, including the daily specials are pretty damn good. Also the gumbo! It’s a vibe!"

Julie Alexander

Pull up a chair. Order a bowl. Raise some hell.

Join us at Texas Chili Parlor for a good time with unforgettable chili and and hard-hitting margaritas in the heart of Austin!