When you hear the words "baby back ribs," it's almost impossible to not think of Chili's: the restaurant's slow-braised pork ribs have been a fixture on the menu since 1986, and remain a top seller today. Want to get your baby back on at home? Darryl Mickler, the grill and bar's executive chef, shows us how to make Chili's Shiner Bock barbecue ribs. Watch the video, snag the recipe, then let us know what you think of these baby backs!
Chili's: it's a bar, a family grill, and now, a place to go to better know thyself. This week, we saw the introduction of a new "Wild or Mild" menu, which caters both to diners who seek foods with serious heat, as well as those who try their best to avoid them. For the same price, you can choose from "Kicked-Up Queso," with chipotle, pico de gallo, and roasted jalapeños, or good ol' melted cheese dip with ground beef and chips. The same thing goes with wings, which come in both honey-chipotle sauce or, for the less adventurous, maple barbecue. Chili's also offers spicy and mild items like quesadillas and sliders. Which one would you reach for?
New year, new food. That's the philosophy at Chili's, which announced yesterday that it has completed the rollout of a brand-new, smaller menu. The national chain's 1,504 restaurants now serve street tacos made with mini corn tortillas, pulled pork sandwiches, and cocktails with premium spirits. More than 75 percent of the items have either been revamped or replaced on the menu, which was abbreviated from 12 to eight pages, and includes a Caribbean salad, loaded nachos, and a build-your-own-burger section.
Much like another chain, Chili's has completely reformulated the recipe for its signature ribs, which are slow-smoked over pecan wood chips. Likewise, the burgers now use USDA choice beef that's not previously frozen. I'd pause before trying the Chili's riff on Mexican street food, but I give the chain props for a long-overdue menu revamp. Will you try the new food?
Source: Flickr User TheTruthAbout . . .
Regardless of its location, price point, or popularity, no restaurant has remained untouched by the deteriorating economy. While many high-end restaurants have made adjustments, some of the most drastic changes taking place are happening between fast and casual food chains.
Casual restaurant chains such as Applebee's, Chili's, and TGI Friday's have desperately tried to keep sales steady with bargain deals. Applebee's started the trend by appealing to cash-strapped diners with a limited-time offer for a large appetizer with two entrees for just $20. Chili's joined in soon after with a "ten under $7" value menu. Earlier this week, TGI Friday's slashed the prices of all sandwiches and salads to a mere $5.
Ironically enough, fast food chains have focused on premium items. Late last year, Burger King aimed to go higher-end with a new line of ribs, and this August, McDonald's is coming out with a one-third-pound Angus beef burger that's priced at $3.99. The number one fast food chain has also been selling specialty coffee drinks at its McCafé stores.
As both segments expand their food offerings, the casual chain and fast food sectors have become somewhat redundant. Have you frequented more fast food or casual chains lately? Which do you think has a better business model?
Chili's is one of those chain restaurants that I'm sure we've all been to at least once. 
This bar and grill has just about everything from wings to soup, from fajitas to steak. With such a diverse menu, it's nice to see there are some healthier options to choose from like salmon, grilled chicken, and salads. I'll have to warn you, though, that a good portion of their food contains a high amount of calories, fat, and sodium. That's not to say you should never set foot into a Chili's — you just don't want to make a daily habit of it. It's nice to be able to enjoy this kind of food every once in a while, but I'd definitely bring some friends, or place half your meal in a doggie bag so you don't end up consuming thousands of calories in one sitting.
To see the Chili's breakdown, read more
Do you...
Eat lunch at your desk because you are constantly starved for time?
Find it difficult to fit in a meal between all your errands?
Wish for a dining experience that is quick, easy, and excellent?
If so, here's a solution for you! Introducing Chili’s Bottomless Express™ Lunch! With chips and house-made salsa, a Caesar or House salad, one of three delicious soups, and unlimited drink refills - you can have your perfect meal and then get back to your day!
Want some comfort?
Indulge yourself with the Baked Potato Soup, a traditional creamy soup filled with chunks of potatoes & topped w/cheese and applewood smoked bacon.
Veggies with a twist?
Fill up on the Broccoli Cheese Soup, a thick & creamy cheddar cheese soup blended with broccoli & topped w/cheese & pico de gallo.
Feeling spicy?
Enjoy the Chicken Enchilada Soup, a hearty soup with marinated shredded chicken & topped w/tortilla strips, cheese & pico de gallo.
Treat yourself and try something new! Visit Chilis.com to find a location nearest you!
Of all the songs a band could cover, "Chili's Baby Back Ribs" might be, oh, first last on your list to gain indie cred. (Or frankly, any cred!) But I guess the adorable Rhett Miller of The Old 97's has some kids to feed, and must've sung this for a commercial. Here's a longer version if you want to here his longwinded excuse and request that his fans don't hate him. Or you could just watch this and chuckle.
