Chili’s Just Came For Burger King (And Every Other Fast Food Meal)

We all know that food is getting expensive. Especially fast food options that used to be the hallmark of a quick, cheap meal. One user on X (formerly Twitter) posted a photo of their local Burger King showing the outrageous price for a simple meal. (It was $18.) They questioned why they would go to a fast food place when they could go to a restaurant and get a similarly priced meal that was better quality. 

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Now, this user’s comment isn’t the focus. It’s who responded to it. Normally, when there’s news about quick service restaurants taking shots at one another, it’s almost always (for good reason) Wendy’s causing a stir. They’re good at it. They live for the drama. They’re snarky and they own it. But this time, a new brand is stepping in to throw some shade. 

Starting Beef?

Restaurant chain Chili’s shared the photo, adding “THIS IS WHAT WE’VE BEEN SAYING!!!!  WHY DO Y’ALL LET FAST FOOD PLAY YOU LIKE THIS? Big Crispy Chicken Sandwich 3 for Me with fries, BOTTOMLESS chips and salsa and UNLIMITED drink for $10.99, only at Chili’s.”

Now obviously they’re going to advertise and push for their food. But they may have a point, too. Unlimited chips and salsa and a meal for less than just a BK meal? I’m certainly listening. This is just one instance of the switch from QSR to traditional dine-in. When price matters, you go where the bang for your buck is. If I can get that deal at Chili’s why would I get something less good for more?

Chili’s Vs Literally Anyone Else

We have to talk about it. Chili’s is maybe on the lower end of good chain restaurants, at least if the way people rag on the brand is to be believed. Personally, I don’t understand the hate―my local Chili’s is always busy. But all that said, the restaurant does have a knack for innovation and fun.

They release monthly margs that are always timed well and I have yet to have a margarita there that was bad. I’ll admit it―yes, I am a fan of Chili’s. Do I go in expecting a gourmet meal? No. But I can always count on good, hot food and cold, refreshing drinks. Plus have you tried their deserts? That molten chocolate cake is to die for. I would go for that cake alone and I’m not ashamed to say so.  

Could Chili’s be on to something with their push for deals with quality to back it up in a time when prices are always rising? Maybe. It’s certainly a buzzy social media post. But Chili’s is also opening themselves up to the same criticism: how does Chili’s compare to everyone else?