Dolores Chili and Philippe the Original have a relationship that won’t quit. Their partnership was established in the 1970’s and has been in good rapport for each decade since. 
Five decades in, and Dolores Chili is still the exclusive chili sold at Philippe’s. It is available by the cup or bowl, with all the fixings, including: onions, shredded cheddar cheese and a side of crackers. Beans are optional.
Dolores Chili is made by Dolores Canning Co, which also manufactures other chili products, including Chicken Chili Brick and various canned items.
The pair has a lot in common; both are family-owned and have operated in Los Angeles since opening. Dolores and Philippe’s run a third and fourth generation family business respectively and built their companies on the same core values centered around hard work.
Dolores Chili’s manufacturing plant is located off Eastern Avenue, specifically in East Los Angeles, and each week the Dolores Chili truck makes a trip out to Philippe’s to deliver a truckload of chili to fulfill the week’s demand.
Philippe’s, being one of the best known restaurants in Southern California, has received many kudos for its delicious chili, which pairs well with any of their signature dips, including: beef, pork, ham, lamb, and turkey.
Dolores Chili refers to itself as L.A.’s favorite chili and their frozen Chili Brick is sold in various grocery stores in Southern California and across the Western United States. Check the fresh meat case or freezer section for the 1-pound brick, which has become a common household grocery list item and is the base for many restaurant’s chili. Major retailers such as Smart & Final, Winco Foods, Food4Less and Vons, as well as countless independents carry the brick. The item is a frozen, all-beef chili that is packed hot, and then frozen in the shape of…you guessed it, a brick. The famous brick has been around almost as long as Philippe’s.
Select retailers such as Bristol Farms carry the Chicken Chili Brick.
Philippe’s has hosted, with sponsorship from Dolores Chili, a “Free Chili Day” event for five years. Since 2010, this event gives the first 500 people a free cup of chili with purchase. This event has become a favorite in the Los Angeles area, and has grown since its inception. Not only do fans get free chili, but Dolores and Philippe’s do giveaways for each event.
“It’s a great event and a memorable day for many – some come specifically for Free Chili Day, while others show up and get a nice surprise,” said Philippe’s Owner and General Manager, Richard Binder. “Everybody loves the chili.”
The two have had a partnership that has benefited both of them since the start, and each look like they will continue that affair for many years to come.
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