About Us

"But perhaps most dramatic was the discovery of the Camp Washington Chili Parlor in Cincinnati… The best, the most exquisite, and the most unique In Cincinnati, and, ergo, the greatest in the world"
- The Chicago Tribune


Johnny Johnson

Welcome to the one and only Camp Washington Chili Parlor! For over sixty years, Camp Washington Chili has been proudly serving "chili-heads" from Cincinnati and all over the world from the corner of Colerain and Hopple Streets, in the heart of Cincinnati's meat-packing district. While the secret chili recipe speaks for itself, there are yet other ingredients that make Camp Washington Chili the premier chili parlor in Cincinnati.

For one, Camp Washington Chili has been honored to serve first-time and not-so-first-time customers - some of whom were around when Camp Washington Chili first opened its doors in 1940. Then, there are the employees who strive daily to serve this award-winning tradition to each customer, from grinding the government-inspected beef every day to working the counter and ladles 24-hours around the clock.

Yes…24-hours a day, six days a week. And Johnny Johnson, the patriarch of the Camp Washington Chili family, has been a constant part of that routine since 1951 when he immigrated to the United States from Greece and began working at Camp Washington Chili. Johnny hasn't worked anywhere else since the day he arrived - a testament to his lifetime commitment to "chili-making." The dedication of Johnny and his wife Antigone has earned Camp Washington Chili an important place in Cincinnati's famed chili history.

Over the years, Camp Washington Chili has distinguished itself as a true Cincinnati classic. And, although the original parlor has been razed to make way for street widening, it's timeless appeal and commitment to quality are still the cornerstone of the new parlor. But don't just take our word for it. Sit back and enjoy a truly unique Cincinnati tradition. And, with each bite, take in not only the rich chili taste but the even richer tradition behind it. We look forward to your patronage.

Camp Washington Chili has earned the James Beard Award as an "American Regional Classic" for its timeless appeal and its commitment to quality food.