George the Chili King: User Reviews

Greasy, but so delicious
By MegF from West Des Moines , August 7, 2009

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Man I love George the Chili King! Its definitely not a place you would want to eat often, but definitely a place you need to go to at least once. My dad swears he saw a rat run across the kitchen when he was a kid growing up-and thats why they loved it. It was gritty, but served that authentic greasy diner cuisine. Now, Im sure they no longer have a rodent problem, but they still have that authentic food that rocks. Try the tenderloin-its amazing. Breaded perfectly, but not too much so you dont taste the meat. And the onion rings are to die for!

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The calories are worth it at this Des Moines Landmark
By MegF from West Des Moines , May 13, 2009

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My dad grew up in Des Moines and likes to share stories with us about his love for George the Chili King and childhood tales walking there with his buddies. He even brags about seeing a mouse run across the floor, and then still ordering lunch. (it was years ago, Im sure they dont have a rodent problem). I get the love of their tenderloin from him. Its lagre like a good tenderloin should be, but not crazy big. Its nice and crispy on the outside, but actually meaty on the inside-delicious! There is obviously nothing healthy about this spot, but its just plain good, classic food.

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Think greasy
By Robbman2000 from Johnston, January 28, 2009

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I went a few year back. Parking lot had pot holes and cracks with grass growing out. Old wood picnic table that would splinter your butt. The menu was on a huge wood signed with paint cracking off. It was like an old trailer park. I went inside. The place was small. There were a row of bar stools in front of a long counter in the opposite side of a cooking area. I saw a lady on the opposite side of the counter smoking a cigarette. I thought to myself. What a weird place to take a break. Well she wasn't on break she was just smoking while she was working. Ashing all over the place too. I ordered. Screw it. I figure I couldn't die from anything that was actually cooked. The smoking lady set a piece of wax paper in front of me. Basically you ate right off the counter. No plate, nothing. Also instead of making my chili dog and bringing it to me she made the entire thing right in front of me (with bare hands). She tossed a bun on my wax paper and went from there. I thought I was in the Twilight Zone. The cook was sweating over the grill. His t-shirt mostly covered in sweat dripping from his hair. Nobody really said anything to you either. I think all anyone said was "What can I get you." Anyway I ate. It was a good chili dog. I had to really concentrate on not looking at the clutter in the kitchen though. I think the place is just old. I suggest if you want a good chili dog or that kind of food to hit Ted's Coney Island that is much cleaner and a better menu.

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Way to Dirty
By malibubarbie from West Des Moines, December 8, 2008

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My husband wanted to stop and get something @ George's and I had never been there..it had to be the dirtiest place I have ever been in...I got nothing..he got a chili dog..had two bites...and tossed it in the garbage...wouldn't want my worst enemy to eat there..

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Nostalgia
By cutman260 from Southeast Side, November 29, 2008

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This place really takes me back. Mom and Dad would load us kids up to go to The Chili King! I love the chili dogs, and of course the chili is a big part of that. It’s nice to go there and see what good old fashioned service is all about! The place has gotten a little run down over the years, but if it was all made anew that would ruin the heart of this establishment. I would highly recommend this to anyone wanting a good old fashioned experience.

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