Chili's at 45th and Lamar Side Quest

at Chili's

A standard Chili's restaurant elevated to an Austin meme and cultural landmark.

Colorful wall art with a city skyline and "45th & Lamar" text above a restaurant interior.

A framed proclamation declaring April 5th as Chili's at 45th & Lamar Day in Austin, Texas.

A wooden trophy shaped like a chili pepper with a plaque that reads "Chili's 45th & Lamar Mitchell Lynn Starr Award".

The Mitchell-Lynn Star

Chili's restaurant exterior with a prominent sign and a parking lot full of cars.

The Experience

Ironic cult classic, meme-powered energy

The Meme That Became an Institution

The Chili's at 45th and Lamar in Austin, Texas, is far more than just a casual dining chain restaurant; it's a bona fide local meme and a quirky cultural touchstone. What began as an ironic inside joke on the /r/Austin subreddit around 2011 has blossomed into a genuine point of local pride, with the restaurant even earning its own official day, April 5th, proclaimed by Mayor Kirk Watson in 2024.

A Cult Following

The humor stems from the idea that while every Chili's is essentially the same, this particular location is 'ours.' This shared sentiment has transformed a standard chain eatery, which opened in September 1999, into one of the brand's top-performing U.S. locations. It's slated for a significant remodel in 2026, further cementing its status.

More Than Just the Joke

Beyond the meme, the restaurant is celebrated for its reliably good food, including famously crunchy chicken crispers and tender baby back ribs. The lively atmosphere, bottomless chips, and frosty margaritas contribute to an unpretentious, distinctly Austin experience. Even local brands have embraced the phenomenon, with one boot company launching a limited-edition line made from repurposed Chili's booth material.

Know Before You Go

Expect a lively, meme-fueled atmosphere and potentially long waits, especially on weekends. While the food is standard Chili's, the experience is uniquely Austin due to its cult status. Service can be variable, but the shared inside joke makes it a memorable stop.