Gettin’ Chili

We asked four popular eateries to put their most popular chopped salad to the test. Our discriminating judges: all bona fide salad lovers—women who like to crunch when they lunch. Each salad was rated on a scale of 1 to 10.

Granville Café—Smoked Chili

Granville prides itself on providing the wholesome, organic ingredients. Who would have every known they make a kick-ass chili? The vegetarian, gluten-free version includes black and white beans, mushrooms, eggplant and tofu.

LB: Love the avocado and onion garnish. Feels light and healthy, yet it is filling and really tasty.
JG: Outstanding presentation. Colorful and interesting with diverse ingredients. Chunky consistency. Didn’t love the onion rings.
DJ: A colorful, south-of-the-border medley. Love the onion rings on top! Great consistency. Hearty and very much a meal.
12345 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-506-7050 granvillecafe.com
Score: 8.5

Blue Dog Beer Tavern—All American Beef Chili

This hot spot is loved for its expansive menu of artisanal beers, killer burgers
and laid-back, friendly vibe.

LB: Traditional, hearty, and I liked that it was meatier. Great taste and the perfect thickness. Could have used more beans.
JG: Good, basic chili. I like that there is a little grease along the top and that it has a meaty creaminess.
DJ: Simple with only a few ingredients, mainly ground beef. Enjoyed the thick and floury consistency.
4524 Saugus Ave., Sherman Oaks, 818-990-2583 bluedogbeertavern.com
Score: 7.9

Mendocino Farms—Vegan Chili

It’s called a “Sandwich Market,” but the artisan menu for locally owned Mendocino Farms includes chili made with soyrizo.

LB: Smells delicious. More soup-like in consistency. Like the smoky flavor. Very good for vegetarian. Wish it were a bit thicker.
JG: Peppery with a kick. Vegetarian with a meaty taste to it. Not thick enough, but it would go well with a grilled cheese.
DJ: Wouldn’t have guessed it was made with soyrizo! Nice amount of spice and heat. A bit too soupy. Definitely need bread to make it more satisfying.
14141 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818-205-9744, mendocinofarms.com
Score: 7.3

Crave Café—Vegetarian Chili

This bustling café, open 24 hours a day, always seems to have a sidewalk crowd. Maybe stick to the sandwiches?

LB: I like the thickness of this chili. It’s a little bland and gravy-like. It’s OK. Not my favorite.
JG: This has a blander flavor and is a bit greasy. It’s a bit chewy and could use some “kick.”
DJ: This has a saucy, chewy consistency. My least favorite of the bunch.
14504 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818-990-7888, cravecafeshermanoaks.com
Score: 2.8