Chili, much like cherished family traditions, has its own unique place in culinary history. In Los Angeles, one particular version stands out for its rich heritage and celebrity allure. The story of Chasen’s chili is intertwined with the city’s vibrant past. This iconic West Hollywood restaurant, which opened in 1936, became a hub for Hollywood’s elite, from mobsters to movie stars. It was not just the A-list clientele that made Chasen’s famous; it was also the legendary chili that kept patrons coming back for more. Stories abound of celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor having this dish flown across continents, highlighting its unparalleled appeal.

Over time, the recipe for this beloved chili has evolved, yet it retains its core essence. When I moved to Los Angeles in 2005, I encountered Chasen’s chili through a cookbook collaboration with renowned chef Nancy Silverton. The book, "Twist of the Wrist," featured recipes using packaged ingredients, inspired by the artisanal products available in specialty shops and supermarkets. Among the contributions was Suzanne Goin’s version of Chasen’s chili, combining pork and beef with commercial spices and canned beans. Testing this recipe sparked my personal journey with chili, leading me to refine and adapt it over the years. Influenced by Mexican chile-based stews, I focused on enhancing the chile flavors, adding various types of chile powders and increasing the onion content based on advice from Kenny Shopsin. Each batch of chili became an opportunity for creativity and improvement, making it a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

Chili has become more than just a dish for me; it represents the joy of experimentation and the pursuit of perfection. Over two decades, I have made countless pots, each one a reflection of my evolving tastes and techniques. While the foundational elements remain—beef and pork, generous amounts of chile powder and cumin—the details continue to change. Adding different types of beans, increasing the onion content, and incorporating smoky chipotle puree have all contributed to the chili’s depth and complexity. Ultimately, every pot of chili is a testament to the effort and passion put into it, embodying the spirit of continuous improvement and the belief that each attempt can be better than the last.