Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience the Legendary Dew Chilli in Springfield, IL
Since 1909, Dew Chilli Parlor has been a cornerstone of American culinary tradition, serving our signature Tavern Style Chilli to generations of loyal patrons. Founded in Springfield, Illinois, our story began with a passion for creating hearty, flavorful dishes that bring people together. Over a century later, we continue to honor our roots while embracing innovation through catering services, retail products, and multiple locations across central Illinois.Our commitment to quality remains unwavering, using the same secret recipe perfected by Rita Maurer in the 1940s. Today, we combine historic charm with modern convenience, offering event hosting spaces, gaming areas, and nationwide shipping of our iconic family-sized chilli cans. As stewards of this beloved institution, we take pride in preserving its legacy while serving both local communities and travelers exploring Route 66's historic landmarks.
Services
Chilli
Catering
Event Hosting
Retail Products
Gaming
Details
- Year established: 1909
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years of culinary tradition and recipe authenticity
- Full-service catering with customizable event planning
- Multiple locations offering convenient access across central Illinois
- Award-winning family-sized retail products for nationwide enjoyment
- Unique combination of historic charm with modern amenities
Services
Chilli
Our iconic Tavern Style Chilli, perfected since 1909, features a secret blend of spices and premium beef. Served in traditional bowls or as part of our famous Dew Horseshoes and Sancho's creations. Available for dine-in, carry-out, or nationwide shipping in family-sized cans.
Catering
Full-service catering for events of all sizes includes setup, serving utensils, and our complete menu. Options range from buffet-style to plated meals with customizable portions. Available for both on-site and off-site events across central Illinois.
Event Hosting
Private party rooms accommodate special occasions with flexible seating and full access to our menu. Includes complimentary event planning assistance and optional entertainment booking for weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings.
Retail Products
Our family-sized chilli cans (8-96 servings) and proprietary seasoning blend ship nationwide. Products maintain the same quality as our restaurant offerings, with free shipping available on select bundles for convenient home enjoyment.
Gaming
Prize-based gaming areas operate daily during extended hours at select locations. Features include themed drawing events and interactive experiences designed to complement our dining atmosphere for adult patrons.
People
Joe Bocklemann
Founder
Established Dew Chilli Parlor in 1909 and developed its signature recipe. Served as steward of the business for 66 years until passing the legacy to Rita Maurer in 1975.
Rita Maurer
Recipe Keeper
Trusted employee since 1942 who safeguarded the secret chilli recipe for 33 years. Became sole proprietor in 1975 and maintained culinary standards until the business' temporary closure in 1995.
Mark Roberts III
Revitalizer
Purchased the original location in 2013 and reintroduced the classic recipe. Operated a food truck before restoring the historic parlor, ensuring continuity of tradition through 2017.
John Leskovisek
Current Owner
Co-purchaser of Dew Chilli Parlor in 2017 with plans to expand the menu and open new locations while maintaining the original recipe's integrity.
Mike Monseur
Co-Owner
Partner in revitalizing Dew Chilli Parlor since 2017. Focuses on operational improvements and strategic expansion while preserving the establishment's historic character.
Questions
What makes Dew Chilli Parlor historically significant?
We've served our secret-recipe Tavern Style Chilli continuously since 1909, making us one of America's oldest continuously operating chilli parlors with Route 66 heritage.
Can I order Dew Chilli outside Illinois?
Yes! We offer nationwide shipping for our family-sized chilli cans and seasoning blends through our online store with free shipping options available.
Do you accommodate large group events?
We provide complete event solutions including venue rental, catering, and entertainment booking for parties, corporate events, and community gatherings at multiple locations.
Are gaming options available at all locations?
Gaming areas operate during extended hours at our North Grand Avenue location, featuring prize drawings and interactive entertainment for adult patrons.
How can I access catering services?
Complete our online catering form to receive our menu options. Our team provides setup with serving essentials and offers both on-site and off-site service.
What special menu items should I try?
Our signature dishes include Dew Horseshoes with triple-layered fries, Sancho's creations, and the original Tavern Style Chilli that started it all in 1909.
