Hidden jewels of quiet and cozy dining are usually tucked away along lesser-trodden paths. And so is this one. Though in the heart of Roppongi's nightlife district, House of Chili is not the place you would casually stumble upon. Starting from Almond's coffee shop, the meeting place of choice, the main entertainment artery hustles and bustles from Roppongi crossing down towards Tokyo Tower with plenty of distractions along the way. There’s little reason to turn down side streets — UNLESS you know what you are looking for.
Walk along the left side of Gaien Higashi dori, past the rabble of loitering brothers in front of Craighton's Coffee (that's the first lane), past the little deserted one-way street (the lane leading to Oasis and Lexington Queen), and then boldly enter the third lane to your left. The corner is flanked by a convenience store and Lingerie Pub Pierce on one side, and by Freshness Burger on the other. Walk down this lane until you reach a large, quiet cemetery. From here, you can't miss the lights that shine as if the house were on fire — the cozy cafe-bar & eatery was named House of Chili for a reason.
The food menu features customer-friendly chili pepper symbols next to the more spicy dishes, helping you select and anticipate your meals. Patrons that want it extra hot are encouraged to talk to the Thai chef in person — and will not be disappointed. It is a good idea to have your glass filled before the food arrives, just in case the chili sets your taste buds aflame.
Drinks start at ¥280 for an espresso, but are generally in the ¥500-980 range. There is approx. 250 types of beverages to choose from, plus the bartender is always open to requests for special concoctions.
If it is the hunger that drives you here, more than three dozen kinds of dishes can be ordered, with the portions being extremely generous. Take nachos, for instance, they come complete with chili beans, tomato, cheese, jalapinos and melting-on-the-tongue avocados served in a rustic iron pan. Add an order of Vietnamese spring rolls, and you will have a sumptuous dinner at an extremely economical price. The successful blend between taste and value is also the reason why many of the district’s night workers can be seen showing up on their way home. Suffice to say that there are lots of oishi dishes to sample here, including good spaghetti and mouth-watering burritos.
However, one of the main attractions here is the cozy corner atmosphere and friendly service. This is the place to bring your date, to take a breather from the Roppongi fast lane, or chill out with some chili. Check out House of Chili, and see for yourself.
Tel: 3402-0372
1F Nakazima Bldg.
3-8-11 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Mon-Sat 5pm-5am, Sun closed
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