Bowl Of Gold: Where To Find North Dakota’s Best Chili 2025

North Dakota isn't known for its chili, but that might be a big mistake.

We have numerous restaurants across the state that may not necessarily be known for their chili, but it's like a well-kept secret.

I've had chili from several Bismarck-Mandan area restaurants, but never from the so-called best chili place in the state.  More on that restaurant in just a moment.

Some of the chili I like from around the Capital Region include Kroll's Diner in Mandan, the Lodge/Stadium, Bistro 1100, and even one gas station, Cenex has delicious chili in my opinion.

Is there anything better on a cool, crisp fall day than a bowl of hot piping chili?

I didn't think so.  I think chili is one of those dishes where either you love it or hate it.  It's not for everyone, but that's okay, more for me.

I'm kind of a chili connoisseur.  To me, it's kind of like pizza for most people; even when it's bad, it's still good.  I prefer thicker chili to the runnier kind.  I like big chunks of meat in my chili, too.  It doesn't matter if it's hamburger, turkey, or even pheasant.

Yep, I made pheasant chili last hunting season, and it was delicious.  I like my chili with or without beans.

Either way works, but every bowl of chili requires two toppings for sure.  Those would be sharp cheddar cheese and jalapenos (banana peppers work too).  Some people also like onions in their chili, and that's more of an optional deal for me.

So, which restaurant serves the best chili in the entire state of North Dakota?

As it turns out, you can find it right here in good ol' Bismarck. Make it two years running, too. According to Love Food,  the best chili in North Dakota comes from Scotty's Drive-In restaurant.  The online article says, "It's house-made, wonderfully thick and spicy."

You can order Scotty's chili in a variety of ways, including on a hot dog, cup, or bowl, and even on chips.

I think I know what I'm having for supper. Stay hungry, my friends.