Good: nothing rude people and bad service. Bad: i will never go again the chili was nuked not fresh abd our burger was overcooked and you only pay cash no cards how shotty is that. Improvements:... More

Good: nothing rude people and bad service. Bad: i will never go again the chili was nuked not fresh abd our burger was overcooked and you only pay cash no cards how shotty is that. Improvements: close the place down and put a wendys at least that way you get the same chile and more with the ability to pay with a credit card. Other: the locals were rude and somewhat voilent while the staff laughed and did nothing.
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I can't believe that I've lived in the Ballard area for so long and had no idea this place existed. Of course, it took my partner, Michael, to be the one to introduce me to it. This is the man that... More

I can't believe that I've lived in the Ballard area for so long and had no idea this place existed. Of course, it took my partner, Michael, to be the one to introduce me to it. This is the man that eats chili at home like there's no tomorrow and thinks tuna added to canned chili is the most wonderful gastronomical combination that you wouldn't realize he's an accomplished cook that puts me to shame in the kitchen. But, beyond that... we strolled into Mike's Chili Parlor tonight and partook of a few dishes: 1) a bowl of chili, 2) a chili dog, and 3) fries. We also had Manny's Pale Ale and a Black Butte Porter as beverages. Overall it was a fine meal and we left satisfied. Michael had pounded down his whole bowl o' chili and I was amazed he didn't order the optional "big ass bowl of chili" for $8.50 that was highlighted on a yellow construction paper sign at the bar. I've a feeling that if he had gone for it I would have regretted it for the next day or so. I was pleased at the variety of beers on the menu as there were standard domestics and microbrews. However, the only green vegetable in the whole place is the jalapenos' so don't be looking for anything healthy in this place. Prices seem fair and reasonable and throughout the evening Michael and I were thinking of all of the friends that we know that would enjoy a place like this one. While we were there (dinner time) we saw long time regulars and newer Ballard-ites. A co-ed soccer team was also there taking advantage of the long middle bar stool seating area while smaller parties were at booths and some of the small stand alone tables. For those that give the area Mike's sits in a thumbs down it must be realized that the large block area behind Mike's is still waiting for that little old Ballard lady to die off so the land developer can get ahold of her house. She's been written up in the local papers for her stand to stay in her home and I say "more power to her." Gentrification can always come later although I'm sure the developer is gnashing his teeth. What's cool in Mike's place is that you can see history through the photos that hang on the wall - this business has been in place since roughly 1915. That's a heck of a feat with a small, family owned business nowadays. Kudos to this Greek family for doing it as well as to their ability to keep that chili recipe a secret for so long. I give them a rating of great because for what they offer and purport to be they do an excellent job of providing exactly what they advertise. No frills and no attitude other than a cheeky one.
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When you first walk into Mike's Chili Parlor, you should have a pretty good idea about what to expect. The place is a bit run down, and the neighborhood even more so. Inside, there always seem to... More

When you first walk into Mike's Chili Parlor, you should have a pretty good idea about what to expect. The place is a bit run down, and the neighborhood even more so. Inside, there always seem to be a group of regulars sitting at the counter. The service is very friendly and welcoming. The food is average, but it's a good periodic addition to the lunch rotation. Although when you go to a chili parlor for lunch with a bunch of co-workers, it can lead to a not so pleasant 'atmosphere' in the afternoon.
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Hadn't tried it in 20 years, thought it might have changed. It hasn't. Nice place, nice people, burgers are fine but little more. Chili is terrible. Ground beef, some tomato, some chili powder... More

Hadn't tried it in 20 years, thought it might have changed. It hasn't. Nice place, nice people, burgers are fine but little more. Chili is terrible. Ground beef, some tomato, some chili powder passed nearby. I will go back for the place and the beer, but not for the chili.
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You want a bowl o' chili and a grilled cheese? Who doesn't? Gotta make it Mikes Chili Parlor, it's the best. They got those good chopped onions, jalepenos and shredded cheese. Great neighborhood bar... More

You want a bowl o' chili and a grilled cheese? Who doesn't? Gotta make it Mikes Chili Parlor, it's the best. They got those good chopped onions, jalepenos and shredded cheese. Great neighborhood bar feel, no nonsense service and Pipin' Hot Chili. Make it happen.
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I am a relatively new transplant to Seattle, so I never saw Ballard in its heyday (some may argue thats today), but I imagine Mike's Chili Parlor to have been a great place to come and get some... More

I am a relatively new transplant to Seattle, so I never saw Ballard in its heyday (some may argue thats today), but I imagine Mike's Chili Parlor to have been a great place to come and get some warm, tasty food after a hard day's work. I really enjoyed the chili there, and the jalepeno option was great. It was just enough heat to make it good, not so much to make you taste burning :) If you are in the area and want anything chili, check out Mike's Chili Parlor. Ah, and don't forget the 53.50 grilled cheese sandwich and the free abuse (on the menu).
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This place has burger, dogs, pasta and assorted other menu items all slathered with a very healthy dose of chili. And while the chili is great, the character of the place makes it worth a visit... More

This place has burger, dogs, pasta and assorted other menu items all slathered with a very healthy dose of chili. And while the chili is great, the character of the place makes it worth a visit all by itself. You really get a feel for old ballard eating at Mike's. The bombed out look of the neighborhood and the espn classic bowling playing on the TV make you feel a little like you are in the 50's without all the stupid 1950s kitsch. So take a ride out to Mike's for lunch, it's worth the drive.
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Mike's Chili Parlor is at the north end of the Ballard bridge, take the first exit going off the bridge, hit the brakes, look to your right and there it is. Mike's is a 3rd generation chili parlor,... More

Mike's Chili Parlor is at the north end of the Ballard bridge, take the first exit going off the bridge, hit the brakes, look to your right and there it is. Mike's is a 3rd generation chili parlor, which is currently owned by Phil, grandson of Mike and has been open non-stop since the 30's. Icy beer on tap, high and low brow stuff as well as recently added hard liquor are on tap. The chili comes in cup, bowl or big ass bowl and paired with a grilled cheese sandwich reminds you of mom if she was a fisherman or dock worker or...you get the idea. The works on the chili include onions, cheese and jalapenos. Order the works and you will have an experience to remember for a day if not a lifetime. Be careful the stuff is addictive. Eat up and tell them Jon sent you.
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