Last updated 7 hours ago | Originally Published: May 13, 2025
Cincinnati’s chili culture is a culinary treasure, rooted in the 1920s after a unique Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce appeared on the scene. This distinctive chili, featuring ground beef, tomato paste, and spices like cinnamon and allspice, is often served over spaghetti or hot dogs in an iconic way we now call Cincinnati chili. With over 250 chili parlors, the city’s love for this dish is evident, and canned versions allow fans nationwide to enjoy this tradition. As a Cincinnati-based brand and business, we proudly offer these hometown favorites alongside our snack and candy products!
To determine who makes the best Cincinnati Chili, we invite everyone to our city for a mini food tour; we’re sure you’ll find the best. Unfortunately, we understand that not everyone reading this can make the journey, so we found five local brands that have canned their iconic chili just for you, regardless of where you live in the United States! We hope to see more brands do the same in the near future, but as it stands today, these are the only canned chili brands making their iconic chili available for all Americans to enjoy! Luckily, these five major brands are the best, so making the tip isn’t even necessary, but we still recommend it.
Skyline Canned Chili
Skyline Chili started in 1949 by Nicholas Lambrinides and is a Cincinnati classic with over 130 locations in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Florida. It’s renowned for its unique Mediterranean-inspired meat sauce, featured in dishes like the three-way chili over spaghetti topped with cheese. You can buy canned Skyline Chili at Skyline Chili, Candy Retailer, Cincinnati Specialties, and Cincy Direct. As of 2025, Skyline is the official chili of the Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Cyclones, and FC Cincinnati, making it the most prominent chili brand hailing from Queen City!
Gold Star Canned Chili
Gold Star Chili was launched in 1965 by the Daoud brothers and offers a robust contender in Cincinnati’s chili scene. With roots tied to Empress Chili, the brand distinguishes itself with a unique spice blend that has cultivated a dedicated fan base. Gold Star operates numerous locations and provides canned chili in 10oz and 15oz cans, available at Gold Star Chili, Candy Retailer, Cincinnati Specialties, and Cincy Direct. Enjoyed most for its authentic flavor, the canned version uses the same exact recipe found in the restaurants. Gold Star’s rivalry with Skyline fuels its prominence, making it a top contender in the city’s chili heritage.
Cincinnati Recipe Canned Chili
Cincinnati Recipe Chili stands out as a product-driven brand, delivering an authentic Cincinnati-style chili at a wallet-friendly price. Its slightly sweet, thinner consistency makes it a perfect match for classic spaghetti dishes. Available in 15oz cans, it’s sold at Candy Retailer, Cincinnati Specialties, and Cincy Direct. Unlike restaurant-based brands, it focuses solely on packaged goods, earning recognition for convenience, value, quality, and flavor.. Consumers appreciate its faithful recreation of the city’s chili tradition, making it a go-to for those seeking an affordable yet tasty option without the frills of dining out or taking a trip to the city!
Dixie Canned Chili
Dixie Chili, established in 1929 by Nicholas D. Sarakatsannis, ranks among Cincinnati’s oldest chili brands. Operating three locations in Northern Kentucky, it traces its origins to Sarakatsannis’ Empress Chili days, crafting a recipe with premium ingredients like 96% fat-free beef chuck. The brand canned chili is offered in 10oz cans and is available at Dixie Chili. Candy Retailer, Cincinnati Specialties, and Cincy Direct. Though smaller in scale than Skyline or Gold Star, Dixie’s focus on quality and tradition has sustained its reputation. Its enduring presence reflects a commitment to authenticity that resonates with chili purists locally and worldwide.
Worthmore Canned Chili
Worthmore Chili was founded in 1920 by Phil Hock and boasts a rich history that began with soups before pivoting to Cincinnati-style chili. Known for its thick texture and hearty flavor, it appeals to those craving a substantial yet unforgettable chili experience. The brand’s 10oz canned chili is available at Candy Retailer, Cincinnati Specialties, and Cincy Direct. This locally known brand enjoys a niche following despite its lower profile compared to giants like Skyline. Its century-long legacy underscores its staying power in Cincinnati’s competitive chili market, making it a favorite among thousands of fans!
Only You Can Choose the Best Canned Cincinnati Chili
At the end of the day, nobody can tell you who makes and offers the best canned chili from Cincinnati. From a personal perspective and in my opinion, I’m a lifelong fan of Skyline Chili. However, I understand and accept that not everyone will agree, so if that’s you, I invite you to share your favorite canned Cincinnati Chili or your favorite restaurant that makes it so others can stop by and experience the best, according to you! We welcome all opinions and suggestions, so let us know who does better than everyone and why they should offer their chili in a can for all to enjoy; let’s send them a message that’s loud and clear!
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