The future of Chili John’s, a beloved Burbank institution since 1946, hangs in the balance as the iconic restaurant faces the threat of closure. Co-owners Steve and Claudine Hager are grappling with the harsh reality of dwindling business and mounting financial pressures, compounded by the lingering aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent entertainment industry strikes that have rocked the local economy. Despite its storied history and loyal following, the restaurant’s survival now hinges on a bold new venture: the Taproom at Chili John’s.
### A Legacy at Risk
Nestled in the heart of Burbank, Chili John’s has been a culinary cornerstone for generations of Angelenos, serving up hearty bowls of chili and iconic icebox pie to a devoted clientele. The restaurant’s roots trace back to founder John Isaac’s original bar and restaurant in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where he first crafted the timeless chili recipe over a century ago. Since its relocation to Burbank in 1946, Chili John’s has become a local landmark, attracting diners from far and wide with its signature dishes and nostalgic charm.
### A New Chapter Unfolds
In a bid to revitalize the struggling business, the Hagers have embarked on a daring new project: the Taproom at Chili John’s. This adjacent bar promises to offer a fresh twist on the classic Chili John’s experience, featuring a tantalizing menu of gourmet dishes inspired by Steve Hager’s culinary adventures across the country. From New Orleans peanut butter burgers to artisanal s’mores, the taproom aims to cater to a wider audience while staying true to its chili roots.
As the Taproom at Chili John’s prepares for its grand debut in April, the Hagers are pinning their hopes on this innovative concept to secure the restaurant’s future. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, from financial constraints to the uncertain landscape of the post-pandemic dining industry. With the support of their loyal patrons and the local community, the Hagers are determined to preserve Chili John’s legacy for generations to come.
### A Call to Action
As the clock ticks down to Chili John’s 80th anniversary next year, the Hagers are urging customers to rally behind their beloved restaurant in its time of need. Through a recent GoFundMe campaign and the launch of the Taproom at Chili John’s, they hope to raise awareness and funds to keep the business afloat. For Steve and Claudine Hager, the stakes have never been higher as they navigate the precarious terrain of the restaurant industry in a post-pandemic world.
In the words of Steve Hager, “The problem would fix itself if we can just have enough people come and enjoy our food.” With the future of Chili John’s hanging in the balance, the fate of this cherished institution rests in the hands of the community it has served for over seven decades. As patrons gather around the horseshoe counter, savoring each spoonful of chili made from a century-old recipe, the spirit of Chili John’s lives on, resilient and unwavering in the face of adversity.
