Skyline Chili Multiple Locations
Cincinnati Chili · 4112 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34211
This is a chain with multiple locations - the address above is the one reviewed here.
★★★★★ 1 review(941) 242-2603
Menu Items
Reviews
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Cincinnati Chili on Spaghetti, A Unique Flavor. Plus Tons of Cheese.
The History & Hype
I had heard numerous tales and watched countless YouTube videos about Skyline Chili, with claims ranging from a subtle cocoa flavor to outright assertions of chili that was chocolate-infused. The divisive opinions of those who loved or hated it intrigued me, and though I missed my chance to try it in Ohio, finding out locations existed on the west coast of Florida landed Skyline Chili on my must-try list during my recent visit to the area.
Skyline Chili traces its roots to Cincinnati, Ohio, with the original recipe boasting Greek spices and a restaurant that offered views of the Cincinnati skyline. The distinctive "2 Way, 3 Way, 4 Way & 5 Way" menu items caught my attention. Notably, they refer to the spaghetti & chili dishes without using the term "spaghetti,".
So you might be wondering what the different Way numbers stand for? These numbers refer to the toppings and ingredients. A 2 Way is just spaghetti and chili, the 3 way with tons of cheese, the 4 way with onions or beans added, and the 5 way with everything on it.
Opting to get the whole experience on my first visit, I went all-in with a large 5 Way. The towering plate arrived, stacked at least 5 inches high with spaghetti, chili, beans, onions, and a generous blanket of cheese. The amount of cheese applied to everything at Skyline is almost comical. But for people that love shredded cheese this place is heaven.
**First Bite**
With my first bite I was met with a surprising absence of any chocolate notes whatsoever. What did stand out? Cinnamon—loads of it. A quick Google search confirmed my palate's discovery, debunking the chocolate myth. A magazine mentioned how they traveled to several restaurants serving Cincinnati Chili asking about ingredients, and confirming none of them used any kind of chocolate.
While the experience wasn't a disappointment, it fell short of what I had built up in my own mind would be a totally unique flavor experience. The chili, albeit tasty, seemed oddly familiar, leaving me to ponder if I had encountered Cincinnati chili elsewhere in the past. The flavor & ingredient combination of the 5-way is a unique one. I did like the food as a whole, and would definitely come back for it again. In fact Im sending a few cans of chili back home so I can make it myself.
**Not Just Spaghetti**
The menu expands beyond the "Ways" as they call the featured item. Including coney dogs, loaded fries, beer (I opted for a Yuengling), desserts, pints of ice cream, burritos, and more. Noteworthy was their hot sauce, which provided a spicy kick when added to the 5 Way.
Observing the local crowd and their preferences, it became evident that the medium 5 Way and a chili dog was a popular order. The kitchen buzzed with activity as onions were chopped, cheese was shredded, and chili was ladled out. A unique metal tray, capable of holding multiple hot dogs, facilitated efficient assembly of chili dogs with cheese and onions.
**Summary**
The meal was enjoyable, the experience was fun. I wouldn't hesitate to return, as the service was commendable, the food a unique combination of flavors, and the prices fair, with generous portion sizes and a diverse menu. The chili was different, just not up to all the hype you find online. If you grew up eating this type of Chili, I can see how this would be a flavor that takes you back home.
Skyline Chili provides a unique opportunity to delve into the world of "Cincinnati Chili," being the originator of the dish. My only advice would be to savor the experience and not buy into the hype you see online.
Storefront
Dining Area
Large 5 way in front, small in back.
Large 5 Way with a Yuengling Beer.
Coney Dog
Kitchen & Bar
Dining Area
Menu Cover
Coneys & "Ways"
Burritos & Wraps
Fries & Other items.
— Paul