One of my goals for the rest of 2026 was to go to Chili’s.
As crazy as it sounds, I’d never eaten at a Chili’s before. I didn’t eat at many chain restaurants growing up, and there are still so many I haven’t tried.
I remember watching Chili’s commercials about those special baby back ribs as a kid. Then a year ago, I started seeing viral videos on social media of people eating Chili’s mozzarella sticks in all their chewy, gooey glory. I just knew I had to try them for myself!
Last month, I announced my goal to my husband. He laughed and said his goal for the rest of 2026 was to eat at Nobu.
I decided Chili’s was happening this past weekend.
I even wore a new dress. I knew I wanted to make an occasion of going. I’d been saving the dress for a while. It wasn’t formal fancy, but I felt great wearing it. I paired it with some shiny earrings, too.
My first impression walking into Chili’s was how lively it was. There were so many people in the booths, tables, and bar areas - families and groups of teenagers. It was loud and full of energy.
It was strange and familiar at the same time, a place that’s so well known but completely new to me.
My husband and I started with the classic Triple Dipper appetizer, complete with Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks, Southwestern Eggrolls, and Honey-Chipotle Chicken Crispers. Then we had another well-known dish: the fajita with chicken and shrimp.
The mozzarella sticks were delicious, but my favorite thing was the Honey-Chipotle Chicken Crispers. As someone who’s not big on sauces, that one had me licking my fingers!
Now I totally get why people love Chili’s. It’s like a little slice of Americana. I see why teenagers gather here, why families come here, and why people have their favorite dishes. There’s something comforting about going somewhere familiar and eating your favorites time and time again.
I even signed up for the My Chili’s Rewards program, so I’ll be back soon.
Sometimes it’s easy to get disproportionately excited about experiencing little things that are otherwise normal to everyone else. But I think that’s part of what makes life fun.
I had a great time at Chili’s, and now it’s checked off the list.
On to Nobu next.