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New Chili Spot's Mysterious 1929 Claim
26 Aug
Summary
- Starling Chili opened this summer, but its sign claims 1929 origins.
- The chili recipe, distributed by Performance Food Service, dates back to 1929.
- The owner also operates Gold Star Chili and Frankie's Sips & Savories.

A new chili parlor named Starling Chili has opened in Ludlow, Kentucky, drawing attention with a sign that states "original flavor since 1929." Despite the restaurant's recent summer opening, owner Thaer Daoud explained that the chili recipe itself originates from 1929. This recipe is distributed by Performance Food Service.
The chili served at Starling is noted to be Cincinnati-style, featuring familiar spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove. The establishment also offers cheese coneys using Nathan's Famous hot dogs, a choice praised for allowing the hot dog's flavor to come through. Other menu items include waffle fries, a cheeseburger modeled after California's In-N-Out Burger, and a "Crunchrito" that resembles Skyline's Chilito but includes Fritos and chipotle sauce.
Thaer Daoud, whose family also owns Gold Star Chili and Frankie's Sips & Savories, clarified that Starling Chili operates independently of these other establishments. The restaurant is located at 478 Elm St. in Ludlow and operates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, remaining closed on Sundays.