Chilis can trace its origins to 1975, when its founder Larry Lavine set out to introduce a casual dining restaurant offering a variety of burgers, with a more informal and family friendly atmosphere than some other establishments. Today, the chain operates over 1,600 restaurants in over 30 countries, including Peru, Japan and Saudi Arabia, as well as throughout the United States. From the outset, the Chilis menu prices were set to be affordable, and the company’s initial success led to expansion during the 1980s after it was purchased by Brinker International in 1983.
Chilis menu prices are set to compete with its several competitors, and are intended to allow a family of four enjoy a meal without spending more than $100. And like its competitors, Chilis has embraced technology, and now offers online ordering as well ordering by phone. The chain also offers gift cards that can be purchased online, and a rewards or points system for frequent diners, in conjunction with Plenti. Participants can enjoy various bonus and savings offers, including a free birthday dessert.
Although Chilis has diversified its menu items, the chain still offers a selection of craft burgers, such as a guacamole burger and a southern smokehouse burger. Burger prices vary in different areas of the country, although typical prices range from around $8 to $12 for a burger, fries and pickle. The grass fed sunrise burger is suitable for those with allergies and vegetarians.
However, it isn’t just burgers that feature on the Chilis menu, and diners can choose from a wide range of chicken, ribs, steak pasta and seafood dishes as well as several different soups and sandwiches. Chicken and seafood dishes range in price from about $10 to $15, and the chain’s ribs meals cost around $11 for a half rack and $18 for a full rack. Chilis offers several different steak dishes, ranging in price from $11 to $17.
Chilis also has a wide selection of sides to go along with the main course, including sweet corn, home style fries, onion rings and steamed broccoli. Sides at Chilis cost between $2 and $4, although seared shrimp is a couple of dollars extra. The company hasn’t forgotten its Tex-Mex theme, and offers a wide variety of enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas and tacos, with prices typically ranging from about $9 to $12. Some restaurants offer the option of mix and match tacos, with prices from $11 to 415, and some Chilis restaurants also offer a discounted dinner for two, with a shared appetizer, typically for $20.
Chilis menu prices for its desserts and drinks are similar to those at other casual dining restaurants, with desserts costing around $6 to $7. Soda and lemonade costs about $2.75. Chilis also offers an extensive menu for kids, including a grilled cheese sandwich, cheesy chicken past and a peperoni pizza, all served with a drink and a side dish. Party platters which serve between 4 to 8 people are also available, featuring such items as sandwiches, egg rolls and mini burgers.