Cold and dreary, the dead of winter calls for a hearty dish with a warm kick. Chili, a spicy stew containing chili peppers, meat, tomatoes, beans and other seasonings, fits the bill in more ways than one. Escape the chill with a bowl of chili at these five Long Island restaurants.
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BOBBiQUE, Patchogue
A destination for great barbecue, blues and craft beer, this Memphis-style joint has an equally impressive chili recipe. Loaded with beans, bacon and pork, the homemade dish is love at first bite. It’s finished off with sour cream, onion and cheese sprinkled on top. Phone: 631-447-7744 | Address: 70 W Main St Click to taste
Pancho’s Cantina, Island Park
A colorful Tex-Mex restaurant, Pancho’s Cantina has two delicious chili medleys to choose from. The Colorado chili is a hearty blend of beans, peppers, beef and spices. For the vegetarian of the group, the veggie chili comes with peppers, beans and a lot of cumin. Both can be added on top of a plate of nachos for an extra satisfying kick. Phone: 516-897-8300 | Address: 4245 Austin Blvd Click to taste
Smokin’ Al’s, Massapequa Park
Big on Southern and Kansas City-style slow-smoked BBQ, Smokin’ Al’s famous chili has customers returning for more. Gourmet chili made with beef and sausage is topped with melted cheddar and jack cheese for a bite that is mildly spicy and delicious. Phone: 516-799-4900 | Address: 4847 Merrick Rd Click to taste
Mara’s Homemade, Syosset
A down-home eatery, Mara’s homemade has been serving up Cajun and Creole-inspired comfort food since opening in 2003. The Texas all-beef chili is a winner. House ground brisket beef is mixed with onions and spices as well as optional cheddar cheese and red onion to take the chill off a frigid evening. Phone: 516-682-9200 | Address: 236 W Jericho Turnpike Click to taste
Lark Pub and Grub, East Northport
A casual spot big on pizza and burgers, Lark Pub and Grub also makes chili worth digging into. The turkey stout chili is comprised of roasted turkey chunks and beef simmered in Guinness and topped with jalapeño cheddar sauce and sour cream. Go ahead, pencil in a cheat day (or two). Phone: 631-262-9700 | Address: 93 Larkfield Rd Click to taste