Philippe the Original will turn up the heat this January with the fourth annual Free Chili Day, sponsored by Dolores Chili.
“It’s a great event and a memorable day for many – some come specifically for Free Chili Day, while others show up and get a nice surprise,” said Philippe’s General Manager, Richard Binder. “Everybody loves the chili.”
Guests wishing to participate in the fourth annual Free Chili Day will receive a voucher at either of Philippe’s two main entrances, which can be redeemed at the counter for a cup of chili with or without beans, cheddar cheese or onions.
For decades, Dolores Chili has been the exclusive chili sold at the Downtown L.A. iconic restaurant. Patrons can purchase the chili by the cup or bowl, and like on chili day, have the choice to add beans, cheese or onions. Other freshly made soups on Philippe’s menu are available only on certain days; however Dolores Chili is sold seven days a week.
The past three Free Chili Day events have been a success. Some patrons were able to try the chili for the first time, others enjoyed a familiar taste.
Free Chili Day was formed to strengthen the partnership between Philippe’s and Dolores Canning Co., the maker of Dolores Chili, and to give back to restaurant patrons. Its popularity soared and this year’s forecast assumes another successful time.
Philippe’s and Dolores will both hand out freebies to guests in attendance. Free chili and Philippe’s gift cards will also be raffled during the event.
Philippe’s (pronounced fil-LEEPS) opened its doors in 1908 and stands strong as the true inventor of the French Dip Sandwich. In 1918, the owner at the time, Philippe Mathieu dropped a French roll into the roasting pan filled with juice still hot from the oven while making a sandwich. The patron, a policeman, accepted the sandwich anyway and returned the very next day with friends asking for more dipped sandwiches. The French Dip was born. Philippe’s relocated from that location in 1951 during the 101 freeway expansion and has been at its current Alameda St. location since.
Philippe’s is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and offers the ever-popular Beef Dip as well as the Lamb, Turkey, Pork and Ham Dip. For a full menu and restaurant info visit www.philippes.com.
Dolores Chili is made at Dolores Canning Co., which operates out of its East Los Angeles plant, and is a Hispanic family-owned business.
In the 1970s, Dolores began selling the “Chili Brick”, which quickly became known as “L.A.’s Favorite Chili.” The famous chili has expanded outside of Southern California throughout the western United States. Today, the Chili Brick can be found in countless independents and major retailers behind freezer doors or in the fresh meat case. A larger size is also available in foodservice retailers.
The future is bright for Dolores. The versatility, product quality and great price, make the Chili Brick a food frenzy phenomenon.